Closed roads and barricades caused ire for plenty of Philadelphians during Pope Francis’ late September visit, but for some in the region, the quiet roads posed a unique opportunity.
Runners took full advantage of closed bridges and even highways during the papal visit to get in a jog uninterrupted by cross traffic. Some runners were even spotted grabbing an unprecedented dash along the empty Schuylkill Expressway (Interstate 76) on Sunday.
Not all runners were seeking a special thrill of running where it’s normally impossible. Instead, running groups organized unique Pope-themed runs including GoalsFit gym’s “Pope-Athon,” which went from the Manayunk gym to the Pope’ temporary residents in St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, popped up around the area this weekend.
GoalsFit owner Kasey Manwaring had bigger plans for the papal Mass on Sunday afternoon, telling Runner’s World that she planned to run (or bike) to the Ben Franklin Parkway.
If she runs, Manwaring should have plenty of open space on roads. And, that’s a welcome idea for some people who enjoyed roads like the Ben Franklin Bridge closing to traffic.
Dear @CityofPhila: Please make #PopenStreets a yearly event (plenty of people agree)... https://t.co/36df5CpYxr pic.twitter.com/hlcJfNQbRL — Streets Dept (@StreetsDept) September 27, 2015
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