As the nation gears up for the 250th birthday celebration of the U.S. Army, Philadelphia will serve as a key venue for festivities that are expected to attract large crowds and foster community spirit.
The free three-day event, organized by the Penn and Franklin Chapter of the Association of the United States Army, commenced on Friday, June 13, and will run through Sunday, June 15.
With any large celebration, the city anticipates significant impacts on transit and traffic as parades and activities unfold throughout the weekend.
Motorists are advised to be cautious and consider alternative routes to bypass affected areas, while public transportation options, including the Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, and Regional Rail, offer viable alternatives for travel.
Starting early on Thursday, June 12, road closures will begin as preparations ramp up for the celebration.
The following streets will be closed between approximately 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Thursday and Friday:
– North curb lane of Market Street, between 5th Street and 6th Street.
On Saturday, June 14, a more extensive range of street closures will take effect at 6 a.m. and continue until about 10 p.m. These include:
– Market Street, between 4th Street and 6th Street.
– Chestnut Street, between 5th Street and 6th Street.
– Arch Street, between 4th Street and 6th Street.
– Ranstead Street, between 4th Street and 5th Street.
– 6th Street, between Race Street and Chestnut Street.
– 5th Street, between Race Street and Chestnut Street.
The closure schedules continue on Sunday, June 15, with additional street restrictions starting at 6 a.m. until approximately 2 p.m.:
– 2nd Street, between Filbert Street and Chestnut Street.
– 5th Street, between Chestnut Street and Walnut Street.
– 6th Street, between Chestnut Street and Spruce Street.
– Chestnut Street, between 2nd Street and 6th Street.
– Walnut Street, between 5th Street and 6th Street.
Parking restrictions will also be enforced in the vicinity during the celebration weekend.
Motorists in designated areas should adhere to “Temporary No Stopping/Parking” signs, as vehicles parked in violation of these regulations will be relocated to nearby areas.
Anyone suspecting their vehicle has been towed should contact the appropriate police district where the car was parked.
Public transportation via SEPTA will experience detours starting at 4 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, extending through approximately 11 p.m. that evening.
Passengers are encouraged to review specific route modifications on the System Status Page of the SEPTA website or follow @SEPTA on X for real-time updates.
To ensure public safety, the city will deploy law enforcement, traffic control personnel, and emergency medical services throughout the event.
Attendees are reminded of the importance of keeping bags and personal items attended at all times.
In case of emergencies, or to report suspicious behavior or objects, individuals should notify police officers present at the event or contact 9-1-1 without attempting to handle any suspicious items.
Congestion is anticipated, and attendees are urged to plan their travel, use public transportation when possible, and supervise children closely during the festivities.
Comfortable attire suitable for the weather is recommended for those participating in the celebrations.
For ongoing updates about traffic, transit, and public safety during the celebration, individuals can sign up for the ReadyPhiladelphia text alert system by texting ReadyPhila to 888-777.
image source from:https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/250th-u-s-army-birthday-celebration-philadelphia-road-closures-septa/4209102/