City gives more info on getting ready for Pope Francis

WHERE TO EAT, what to do with your trash and what to do if you're about to have a baby were among the topics Mayor Nutter covered yesterday in his fifth news briefing to prepare the city for Pope Francis' visit next month.

Much of the advice was geared toward the 7 percent of city residents who live inside the "traffic box," where cars will not be allowed to enter when the pope is here, Sept. 26 and 27. That area covers just under 4 square miles in Center City and less than 1 square mile in West Philly.

Pope Francis' visit and the Catholic Church's World Meeting of Families - Sept. 22 through 25 - are expected to draw 1 million to 1.5 million participants.

Nutter, speaking from City Hall, reiterated that Washington has designated the visit a National Special Security Event, and as such, the U.S. Secret Service is in charge of security.

Plenty of Philadelphia cops will also be stationed across the city, he said.

"The citizens of Philadelphia will be safe and secure, whether you're in the traffic box or not. If you're in other areas of the city, the Philadelphia Police Department and the Fire Department and every other agency and department will be providing service," he said.

When asked if oil trains will be permitted to travel through the city when Pope Francis is here, Nutter was circumspect.

"We're working with various railroads and railroad partners on that particular issue," he said. "We're sensitive to the issue."

He said the city is working with hospitals to make sure pregnant women will be able to get to hospitals to deliver, despite the traffic restrictions.

"There are plans in place, we're working with the hospitals, they're working with their patients," he said.

There will be no shuttle buses taking people to and from the Ben Franklin Bridge - which will be closed to traffic, Nutter said.

He noted that there are 330 places to get groceries and food inside the traffic box.

As for residential trash and recycling collection in Center City, service will be canceled Friday, Sept. 25, and Monday, Sept. 28. There will, however, be trash and recycling pickup Thursday, Sept. 24, which was previously misstated, he said.

On Monday at noon, a "Papal Playbook" will be available at www.worldmeeting2015.org/papalplaybook. The comprehensive guide will provide residents with assistance in planning for Pope Week and will provide a broad overview of information related to the World Meeting, officials said.

The city also will be posting maps on its website showing the locations of amenities such as hospitals and houses of worship, Nutter said.

Those needing more information can phone the city's 3-1-1 call center, which will move to 24-hour operation beginning on Thursday, Sept. 24, through Monday, Sept. 28, Nutter said.

Business owners with questions can call the Papal Visit Business Resource Center, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 215-683-2100. The center can also be reached by going to business@phila.gov.