PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Downtown Philadelphia streets are largely deserted a day before Pope Francis’ visit.
Many roads have been closed, blocked by concrete and steel barriers and bike rack-style barricades. Pedestrians can’t get to certain areas without passing through metal detectors. Subway stations are closed and regional rail is operating on a reduced schedule.
One man threw a football to friends on an empty Market Street on Friday morning. A police officer nearby directed drivers to open roads.
Many downtown businesses closed or told workers to stay home. More traffic restrictions take effect Friday night.
Vehicles won’t be allowed to enter a 5-square-mile area of downtown starting at 6 p.m.
The 2-mile-long Benjamin Franklin Bridge into New Jersey and 25 miles of highway will be shut down at 10 p.m.
The National Guard has brought about 3,000 troops to help traffic control.
