Road closures, SEPTA detours in place for President Joe Biden's Philadelphia visit
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The president's visit to Philadelphia means people should be prepared for traffic delays and SEPTA detours. Streets around Independence Mall were open until 3 p.m. Thursday.
Now, closures and detours are in place about four blocks around Independence Mall. Evening commuters should expect delays in the area of 5th and Market Streets as it is now closed to vehicle traffic.
Police vehicles are blocking traffic on several streets and barricades have been set up on the Market Street side outside of Independence Hall.
President's Visit:
- The president and first lady are expected to arrive at Philadelphia International Airport around 6:30 p.m.
- The presidential motorcade will travel to Independence Mall ahead of Biden's speech, which is scheduled for 8 p.m.
- The president and first lady are expected to depart from PHL at 9:15 p.m.
So officials warn drivers should watch out for traffic disruptions along the motorcade route.
"Secret Service shuts down anything they want, any time they want, and that's just the way it is and the way it should be," Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney said.
Chicago resident, Blaise Davis, has been enjoying his first trip to Philadelphia but has also noticed a whole lot of security around Independence Mall.
"There's quite a bit of blockade and law enforcement. That's why I'm riding a bike, not driving around. It's hard to get around, makes it a little easier," Blaise said.
Road Closures:
- Drivers should expect traffic closures from 4th Street to 6th Street and from Market Street down to Walnut Street for much of the day.
SEPTA Detours:
- SEPTA commuters should also expect detours around Independence Mall.
- SEPTA riders should expect detours and some Market-Frankford Line subways may bypass the 5th Street Station Thursday afternoon.
