Major bridge linking Philadelphia and New Jersey will be closed during Pope Francis' visit

Officials say a major bridge between Philadelphia and New Jersey and some major highways in the area will be closed during Pope Francis' visit next month.

Authorities announced Wednesday that the Benjamin Franklin Bridge will be closed to vehicles from 10 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, to about noon on Monday, Sept. 28. The bridge will remain open to pedestrians.

Mayor Michael Nutter says an area extending north and south of the city center and to a portion of west Philadelphia will be closed to all incoming traffic except emergency vehicles.

Parts of Interstate 76 and U.S. Route 1 will also be closed. Interstate 95 will remain open though some ramps will be blocked.

More than 1,000 state troopers are being deployed to assist in helping secure the visit.