Martin Lither King Drive Closed To Vehicles Until Further Notice

PHILADELPHIA — The City of Philadelphia has closed Martin Luther King Drive to all vehicles in an effort to give residents an open space to exercise while keeping a safe distance away from others during the new coronavirus outbreak.

Officials closed the road Friday at 8 p.m.

The road will be closed until further notice from the East Falls Bridge to Eakins Oval.

Officials said the closure was done "in the interest of facilitating social distancing among trail users."

Residents are encouraged to stay indoors as much as possible.

However, city officials recognize physical activity as an important aspect of residents' well-being.

"We encourage residents to please maintain social distancing in the course of outdoors recreation," officials said. "The closure of MLK Drive will provide additional space for these activities to be conducted safely."

The public should wash their hands for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer after every visit to an open outdoor facility.