Philadelphia is preparing to host the presidential debate, and residents, businesses, and visitors should be aware of traffic delays and road closures. The debate is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the National Constitution Center (NCC) located at 6th and Arch Streets. To help everyone navigate the event, the City of Philadelphia has announced important details regarding road closures, parking restrictions, and public safety measures. A detailed map outlining these plans is available here.
Public Safety Measures for the Debate
The City of Philadelphia has been diligently planning for the General Election and has extended these preparations to include the presidential debate. The Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) and the Office of Emergency Management are working collaboratively with city, state, and federal partners to ensure a safe environment for everyone during this significant event.
The PPD is prioritizing public safety and security by deploying a substantial number of officers to manage traffic, control crowds, and maintain order in the vicinity of the National Constitution Center and throughout the city. These adjustments will ensure that police services remain at a high standard for all Philadelphia residents during the debate.
To facilitate efficient coordination and decision-making, the City’s Emergency Operations Center will be activated on Tuesday. This centralized hub will bring together various agencies, providing a common operational overview for all departments involved in managing the response to the debate and any related events.
It is also important to note that Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations are in effect, prohibiting the use of small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS/drones) over crowds. Anyone observing drone activity is urged to report the location and description of the operator to the nearest public safety official immediately.
Map detailing road closures and traffic restrictions in Philadelphia around the National Constitution Center for the September 10, 2024 presidential debate.
Road Closures and Parking Restrictions for the Debate
Attendees and residents should anticipate closures affecting vehicular and pedestrian traffic, detours for mass transit, and potential rolling street closures related to the debate.
Weekend Preparations: September 7 – 9
Starting from Saturday, September 7, the public may notice increased traffic and temporary lane closures in the vicinity of the National Constitution Center. These are due to event preparations that will continue throughout the weekend leading up to the debate.
Debate Day and Aftermath: Tuesday, September 10 – Wednesday, September 11
Significant street closures will begin early Tuesday morning, September 10, impacting the area from Arch to Market Streets, and between 4th and 7th Streets. While 4th Street and Market Street will remain open for vehicular and pedestrian traffic, access within the core closure zone will be restricted. Specifically, the 6th Street exit from eastbound I-676 will be closed starting Tuesday morning. Westbound I-676 is expected to remain open but could be subject to closure if necessary.
Access will be completely prohibited within the secure closure points. Arch and Race Streets will remain closed for the duration of the event until the area is cleared, which is anticipated to be on Wednesday.
Employees working within the secure zone can access their buildings through a designated entry point at 7th and Arch Streets.
Eastbound access to the Ben Franklin Bridge from I-676 into New Jersey is scheduled to close after Tuesday rush hour for the debate. However, westbound lanes of the Ben Franklin Bridge into Philadelphia are expected to remain open at this time.
Furthermore, additional temporary highway and street shutdowns and rolling road closures may be implemented on Tuesday as deemed necessary for public safety and in response to anticipated First Amendment demonstrations. Expect ongoing traffic delays on surrounding roadways throughout this period.
Public Transit Disruptions
SEPTA, the regional transit authority, will experience delays, detours, and changes to schedules and stops. Detailed information regarding these disruptions will be promptly published on SEPTA’s official Alert & Advisory webpage and their social media channels. Riders are strongly encouraged to check these resources for the most up-to-date transit information.
Staying Informed
For real-time updates on road closures, reopenings, and other crucial information related to the debate, follow the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management (http://www.twitter.com/PHILAOEM), the City of Philadelphia (http://www.twitter.com/philadelphiagov), and the Philadelphia Police Department’s (http://www.twitter.com/phillypolice) social media pages. To receive immediate alerts directly to your phone, you can also sign up for free ReadyPhiladelphia alerts by texting READYPHILA to 888-777. Staying informed through these channels will be key to navigating the city during the presidential debate.
