PHILADELPHIA — As Philadelphia prepares to host the highly anticipated presidential debate, residents, businesses, and visitors should be aware of traffic disruptions and road closures starting Tuesday, September 10. The presidential debate is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, and will take place at the National Constitution Center (NCC), located at 6th and Arch Streets in Philadelphia. To help everyone navigate these changes, the City of Philadelphia has released detailed information regarding road closures and parking restrictions. A comprehensive map outlining these plans is available here.
Public Safety Preparations for the Presidential Debate
The City of Philadelphia has been diligently planning for the General Election on November 5th for several months, collaborating with city, state, and federal partners. Following the debate announcement in early August, the Philadelphia Police Department and the Office of Emergency Management intensified their preparations, working closely with numerous departments and agencies to assess and manage the event’s impact on the city.
The Philadelphia Police Department is dedicated to ensuring public safety and security throughout the presidential debate. To achieve this, the PPD will deploy a significant number of officers to manage traffic flow, control crowds, and maintain public order in the vicinity of the National Constitution Center and throughout Philadelphia. These strategic adjustments will guarantee that the department continues to deliver high-quality police services to all Philadelphia residents while managing the debate event.
On Tuesday, the City’s Emergency Operations Center, managed by the Office of Emergency Management, will be activated to coordinate the response from various agencies. This activation facilitates real-time decision-making and ensures a unified operational overview for all departments and agencies involved in managing the presidential debate event.
It’s important to note that FAA regulations are in effect, prohibiting the use of sUAS/drones over crowds. If you observe drone activity, please report the location and operator details to the nearest public safety official immediately.
Map of road closures and traffic restrictions in Philadelphia for the Presidential Debate on September 10th, 2024. The map details street closures around the National Constitution Center between 4th and 7th Streets, from Arch to Market Streets.
Road Closures and Parking Restrictions During the Presidential Debate
Expect significant road closures for vehicles and pedestrians, along with mass transit detours and potential rolling street closures related to the presidential debate.
Weekend Preparations: September 7 – September 9
Starting Saturday, September 7, residents can anticipate increased traffic and temporary lane closures in the area surrounding the National Constitution Center. These disruptions are due to event preparations that will continue throughout the weekend leading up to the Tuesday presidential debate.
Debate Day and After: Tuesday, September 10 – Wednesday, September 11
Beginning early Tuesday morning, September 10, extensive street closures will be implemented from Arch to Market Streets, and between 4th and 7th Streets. Importantly, vehicular and pedestrian traffic will still be permitted on 4th Street and Market Street. The 6th Street exit from I-676 eastbound will also be closed starting Tuesday morning. While I-676 westbound is currently expected to remain open, closures are possible if deemed necessary for public safety.
Access within the secure closure points will be restricted to authorized personnel only. Arch and Race Streets will remain closed for the duration of the event. These closures will stay in place until the event area is cleared, which is anticipated to be on Wednesday, September 11.
Employees working within the secure zone can access their buildings through designated entry points at 7th and Arch Streets.
Access to the eastbound lanes of the Ben Franklin Bridge from I-676 into New Jersey is scheduled to close after Tuesday rush hour in preparation for the debate. However, the westbound lanes of the Ben Franklin Bridge into Philadelphia will remain open at this time, although this is subject to change.
Additional temporary highway and street shutdowns, as well as rolling road closures, may be necessary on Tuesday due to public safety needs and anticipated First Amendment demonstrations related to the presidential debate. Expect residual traffic delays on surrounding roadways throughout Tuesday and potentially into Wednesday morning.
Public Transit Information for Debate Day
Plan for potential delays, detours, and changes to SEPTA mass transit schedules and stops. SEPTA will publish real-time updates on their Alert & Advisory webpage and through their social media channels. Check these resources frequently for the latest information if you are using public transit during the presidential debate.
Staying Updated on Debate Day Information
For the most up-to-date information regarding road closures, reopenings, and other details related to the presidential debate, please follow the social media pages of 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 (http://www.twitter.com/phillypolice). You can also receive free ReadyPhiladelphia alerts by texting READYPHILA to 888-777 for timely notifications directly to your phone. Staying informed is the best way to navigate the city during the presidential debate.
