The Impact of the Papal Visit on Moorestown

Pope Francis may be focusing his visit on Philadelphia when he arrives on Sept. 26 and 27, but the weekend-long event will have traffic implications for the whole region.

The Ben Franklin Bridge will be closed. Therefore, I-676 northbound will be closed from Exit 3 to the Ben Franklin Bridge, as will Route 30 westbound from Airport Circle (Route 38/Route 130).

Other roads that will see significant impacts and delays include I-295, Routes 38, 42, 45, 47, 55, 70, 73, 76, 90, 130, 168, 322, I-95, I-195 and Route 1 also will see significant traffic impacts.

For more information and up-to-date traffic statuses, visit NJ Transit’s Papal website.

Local police provided the following safety tips on Wednesday morning:

What should you do to stay safe?

• Know your surroundings: look for exits when you’re in a large crowd.

• Family and friends can get separated: take pictures at the event with your mobile phone so you have photos of how everyone is dressed.

• Let family and friends know you are safe on Twitter and Facebook if you are separated.

• Choose a place to meet in case you do get separated.

• Report suspicious packages to police or security officers.

• Dress properly – for the weather, and for the event.

• Stay hydrated

Be Aware

Always make sure to know your surroundings. Be an observer when you arrive at the area. Be sure to look for the exits, restrooms, and the locations of medical tents or first-aid stations. If an emergency happens, head calmly to the nearest exit. If you’re at an outdoor event on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, look for our new Location Markers. The markers are posted along the Parkway to clearly and easily identify a location or section by letter and number, such as CD-2.

If you need to report an emergency on the Parkway, give the 911 dispatcher the Location Marker letters and numbers so first responders know the exact location.

Be Alert

If you see something suspicious, say something. Tell the nearest police officer or security guard, or call 911. Know how to contact security officials if you need to.

Walk in well-lit areas if it is dark. Be sure to secure your personal belongings. Lock your cars. Keep valuables out of sight.

Unattended Bags

Never leave your bags unattended. If you see an unattended bag, do NOT open, touch, move, or cover it. Report it to the nearest police officer, security guard, or call 911.

Keep Kids Safe

If you are attending an event with children, be sure to talk to them about safety before you attend the event. Always keep an eye on them, and do NOT let them wander. Remind your kids that Police Officers are there to help. If they get separated from their parents or guardians, they should find a police officer.

Stress that it is important for them to stick close to you and your family, and stay away from strangers. Make sure you have a photo of them and remember what they are wearing before you leave home so that you’ll have a good description of them. Consider putting your name and phone number in your childrens’ pockets. If you are staying at a hotel, put a hotel card in their pockets.