Road closures, parking restrictions in place for funeral for slain officer Richard Mendez
Officer Richard Mendez will be laid to rest Tuesday. Several streets will be closed to accommodate the funeral.
Some roads in Center City will be closed Tuesday as a Philadelphia police officer who was fatally shot in a Philadelphia International Airport parking garage is laid to rest.
Two police officers were shot as they attempted to stop a car theft inside the Terminal D garage on Oct. 12. Richard Mendez, 50, died, and Raul Ortiz, 60, was injured.
Services for Mendez, a 22-year veteran of the department, are Tuesday.
Mendez’s public viewing is from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul at 1723 Race St., according to the Philadelphia Police Department.
A funeral service will follow with indoor seating reserved for his family, other loved ones, and law enforcement. A large viewing screen will be located outside for the public. People can also stream the funeral on 6abc.com.
If you are planning on driving through the area, here’s what to know about road closures, no parking-zones, alternative parking, and SEPTA detours:
Road closures
Several streets will shut down Tuesday. If necessary, Philadelphia police may close or detour additional streets by Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Eakins Oval. According to the police, streets are expected to reopen around 2 p.m. at the end of the service.
Closing at 5 a.m.
18th Street, between Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Vine Street
Closing at 6 a.m.
Benjamin Franklin Parkway, between 16th and 22nd Streets
Vine Street, between Logan Circle and 16th Street
Race Street, between 17th and 18th Streets
17th Street, between Vine Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
19th Street, between Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Cherry Street
No-parking zone
All roads listed above become “Temporary No Parking” zones during the funeral. People who violate the restriction will have their cars relocated and must call the police district of the parking area. Need help finding alternate street parking? These four parking apps can help.
SEPTA detours
Bus Routes 2 and 33 southbound, and Route 32 northbound will be detoured for the funeral. Check SEPTA’s System Status, visit septa.org, or follow @SEPTA for updates throughout the day.