Paoli Papal Parking Squeeze

By Walt Hunter

PAOLI, Pa., (CBS) -- SEPTA estimates as many as 20,000 passes may be sold for trips from Paoli to see the Pope.

"You're looking at approximate turnaround of approximately every half hour, we'll be moving a thousand people," Tredyffrin Township Police Lieutenant Todd Bereda told CBS 3's Walt Hunter.

Officials say with only 600 parking spots, you should plan a quick, airport-style drop-off, and don't even think about parking in lots serving customers of nearby businesses, where "tow away" signs are posted.

Some, like Studio Hair Salon plan to close Saturday, owner Heather Heyman telling Hunter, "we have a bridal party that day, but we are going to go to them. I don't want to make a bride late for her wedding."

But at the jewelry shop next door, owner Joe Testa explained he's staying open, letting customers make the call.

"I will leave it up to them," Testa told Hunter. "If they can get here, fine."

But whether you are heading to see the Pope, or closing your business because of the visit, most everyone seemed dedicated to doing what it takes to celebrate a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

"It's going to be a big Papal block party, you know we're all in the same boat, we're all in the same place, it's going to be fun," said SEPTA rider Beth Pellegrino, who is heading downtown this weekend.

"I will make it up somehow," explained business owner Heyman, smiling.

"And maybe some extra blessings will be sent our way, send 'em to Paoli,we could use 'em!"