Protecting the Pope, Protecting the People

Between the Delaware River and Schuylkill River, the 3-century-old city of Philadelphia is surrounded on three sides by water. Because many scheduled activities for the Papal visit took place near the waterfront, maritime security was a key element for public safety and the protection of the maritime transportation system. A large volume of vessel traffic passes through the region every day. Keeping the public safe during the event required interagency cooperation and planning on a large scale.