Here Are the Details for Philly’s “March for Our Lives” Against Gun Violence

Marchers share photos of posters in a Facebook group before the rally. | Photo, poster by Lauren DeKlerk

Thousands of people are expected to gather in Old City on Saturday for the “March for Our Lives” rally against gun violence.

The demonstration, which comes more than a month after the Parkland shooting, will unfold as cities across the country march in unison for the same cause. Here’s what you need to know if you plan to attend.

How many people are going?

More than 3,000 people say they’re “going” to the Philly march, according to a Facebook page for the event. Another 7,000 say they’re interested.

8 MORE DAYS until March For Our Lives Philly! Let’s get out there and march for safety and change! Bring everyone you know who wants to stand up, make their voices heard, and end gun violence in our country! #neveragain #marchforourlives

— March For Our Lives Philadelphia (@March4Philly) March 16, 2018

Where and when does it start?

Participants will assemble at 9:30 a.m. at 5th and Market streets. The march will begin at 10 a.m.

What’s the route?

Marchers will head east on Market Street from 5th Street and eventually make their way to Front Street. They’ll head south along Front Street to Dock Street, then head east, eventually hitting Columbus Boulevard, where they’ll walk south to Lombard Circle. A rally will commence at Lombard Circle at 11:30 a.m. It’s expect to end at 2 p.m.

Any public safety issues I need to know about?

The march should be pretty standard. You can bring bags and backpacks — but the city is asking participants not to leave any bags of items unattended.

The route and rally could get congested. If you’re bringing children, be sure to keep an eye on them at all times and make a plan for where to meet if you get separated.

Otherwise, the area above the route is designated as a “No-Drone Zone” — so no drones.

For more information about public safety at special events, check out the city’s Special Event Safety Guide.

Are there road closures that I need to know about?

Of course! Road closures and parking restrictions will be place to ensure the safety of the participants and the public. If you’re planning to drive in the area, expect delays and perhaps use an alternate route. Also, don’t double-park.

https://twitter.com/PhiladelphiaGov/status/976899682248134658

Per the city, the following streets will be closed between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday:

• Columbus Boulevard from Dock Street to Lombard Circle
  • Local access will be maintained to the parking lots on the east (river) side of Columbus Boulevard, accessible via Lombard Circle. Motorists wishing to access these lots must travel northbound on Columbus Boulevard
  • Local access will be maintained to the I-95 northbound on ramp at Lombard Circle, accessible via northbound Columbus Boulevard
  • Local access will be maintained to the Hilton Penn’s Landing, accessible via Dock Street and southbound Columbus Boulevard

The following streets will be closed between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Saturday:

• 500 Market Street
• 5th Street from Market Street to Arch Street

Streets will reopen as the march progresses.

Where are the parking restrictions?

You can’t park on the following streets between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday:

• North 6th Street from Market Street to Arch Street (east side)
• North 5th Street from Market Street to Arch Street (east side)
• Market Street from 5th Street to Front Street (both sides)
• Front Street from Market Street to Dock Street (both sides)
• Dock Street from Front Street to Columbus Boulevard (both sides)
• Columbus Boulevard from Dock Street to Lombard Circle (both sides)

Do I need to know anything about public transportation?

If you’re taking the bus, yes. Street closures will detour some bus routes in the area between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday. For a list of detours, visit SEPTA’s website.

Otherwise, public transportation should run as usual.

Anything else?

Nope! You’re all set.