Governor Orders State Of Emergency During Pope Visit

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie on Friday signed an Executive Order declaring a statewide State of Emergency during the Pope’s visit to the region later this month.

“With an estimated 2 million visitors expected to gather in Philadelphia for the upcoming World Meeting of Families and Papal visit, Governor Chris Christie today signed an Executive Order that puts in place measures to manage the occasion, coordinate any requests for mutual assistance with neighboring governments, and ensure a safe and orderly visit for New Jersey residents and many thousands of visitors expected to travel through New Jersey for the occasion,” the Governor’s office announced.

Officials said the Governor’s Order provides emergency management, law enforcement, county and local officials with the tools needed for a “secure and orderly visit of Pope Francis,” who is slated to be in Philadelphia on Sept. 26 and 27.

The order provides officials with the authority to accommodate mutual aid requests as well as contraflow of traffic on roadways and, consistent with the deployment of the National Guard in Philadelphia, authorizes use of the New Jersey National Guard to support events as needed, state officials said.

“Given the Pope’s comprehensive schedule and the influx of people traveling to see him, the events associated with his visit span the normal State, county and municipal operating services,” said Governor Christie. “Managing this historic event requires the coordinated deployment of personnel and other resources to ensure the health, safety and resources of the citizens of New Jersey.”

The order will remain in effect until Tuesday September 29 at 8 a.m.

Click here to view Patch’s complete guide to the Pope’s visit.