Behind The Scenes, Huge Security Plan For Pope's Visit to Phila. is Taking Shape
By Mark Abrams
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Release of the schedule for Pope Francis' visit to Philadelphia is believed to be imminent, but the plans for stepped-up security at the end of September in the city and region haven't been disclosed yet.
The US Secret Service, working with the Department of Homeland Security and local authorities, is in charge. And while the agency has been interfacing with the Vatican on protection plans, the Secret Service also has been busy here in Philadelphia.
But a spokesman is quoted as saying that release of a full schedule of street closures and security checkpoints isn't expected until the first week of September.
Edward Turzanski, a security expert and LaSalle University scholar in residence, says, relax.
"For the most part, we'll know everything we need to know in enough time so that we can get around to do whatever it is we have to do," he tells KYW Newsradio.
Turzanski says the security plans will be complex but the city has a good track record when it comes to security and cooperation.
And while there may be some inconvenience, he says, the goal is to make it safe for not only the pope but the expected two million people who are coming to see him.