Restaurants, Bars Beefing Up Security During Papal Visit
By Kristen Johanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- With nearly a million people expected to crowd the Ben Franklin Parkway during the visit of Pope Francis, bars and restaurants are planning for an unusually busy weekend. Part of that plan includes an increase in security.
With hopes of hosting big crowds, some businesses are taking their own steps to ensure safety. Puri Garzone III with City Tap House in Logan Square says they've been working with the Secret Service, but have made plans of their own to protect their establishment and their patrons.
"We have taken it upon ourselves to contract our private security companies to assist us in having an able body person at the door for the majority of our open hours during the visit," Garzone says.
Con Murphy's Irish Pub at 18th Street and the Parkway is anticipating a busy and profitable weekend. As a result, the bar is extending its hours.
"It should be packed. We are going to be open from the morning all the way to night, so breakfast until close," the manager says. "We are going to bring in extra security to deal with crowd control, crowd flow, that sort of thing."
With the hope of a chaotic, but great weekend.
