Philadelphia Marathon Boosts Security In Wake Of Paris Attacks

This weekend, tens of thousands of runners will line up in front of Art Museum and take to the streets for the city’s signature footrace, the Philadelphia Marathon.

The runners competing in the full marathon, half marathon, and 8k races won’t be alone, however. Thousands more will greet them cheering on the streets, from Independence Hall to landmarks around the city.

Security for the event, especially in the wake of last week’s terrorist attacks in Paris, will be a massive undertaking.

Mayor Nutter spoke at a press conference Tuesday morning addressing the security measures that will be in place for the event.

“There is no known threat to the city of Philadelphia,” Nutter said, according to a press release.

He said that “enhanced” security measures would be in place, but declined to give many specifics.

Security was raised at the Philadelphia event significantly in 2013 and 2014 after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings.

Officials warned that only clear plastic bags would be permitted near the start and finish area on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

More notably, however, railings and barriers separated the course from the spectator area, making it a more lengthy process for runners to find their way to their starting corrals.

Nutter touched on secure zones during the Tuesday press conference, noting that security checkpoints will be established along Benjamin Franklin Parkway from 18th to 25th Street.

Runners should allow themselves extra time to get to the starting line, Nutter added.

The Philadelphia Marathon and Half Marathon start together at 7 a.m. on Sunday morning. The Rothman 8k, run in conjunction with the marathon, is on Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m.

A Health and Fitness Expo, and packet pick-up for runners, is held in the Pennsylvania Convention Center on 12th and Arch Streets. For specific times, please see here.