Ahead of the Eagles victory parade through Philadelphia scheduled for Feb. 8, schools and several other city institutions are already planning to close their doors to avoid massive crowds that day.
Whether due to a belief that most people in the Philadelphia area will be dropping everything to join the celebration and partying all night long, or out of a genuinely altruistic desire on the part of educators and employers to let their fans partake in the parade, many organizations are deciding it’s wisest to close their doors entirely.
That was the case for School District Superintendent Dr. William Hite.
“The excitement of the Eagles first Super Bowl victory is a once in a lifetime event,” Hite said in a statement announcing that all School District of Philadelphia schools and administrative offices would be closed. “For this reason, we have decided to give our students, teachers and their families the chance to witness history.”
Philadelphia City Council president Darrell Clarke also announced that Thursday’s City Council session will be canceled that day.
“I have never in my life been so excited to cancel a work meeting,” Clarke said in a statement. “The Philadelphia Eagles’ historic victory last night was richly earned and deserved by players, team employees, and fans. … On Thursday, the city of Philadelphia is going to throw the greatest Super Bowl parade ever. Thanks again, Eagles. Can’t wait to meet you on Broad Street!”
Agencies and organizations to close Thursday
-School District of Philadelphia schools and administrative offices and parochial schools will be closed.
-All Philadelphia courts of the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania will be closed. “Due to transportation issues and the large number of attendees expected, it has been decided to close all Courts & Offices of the Philadelphia Courts,” the courts said in a statement. Anyone who has a jury duty notice for that day will be rescheduled. “Critical” services will remain operational.
-Philadelphia City Council is canceling its weekly meeting.
-Pathway to Pardons, a community event planned at the Community College of Philadelphia on Feb. 8 by Lieutenant Governor Stack and State Senator Larry Farnese, has been canceled and will be rescheduled.
-All Free Library branches will be closed.
Check MetroPhilly.us for updates as more cancellations roll in.
