Philly event is two-way street of fun, health

The Saturday forecast looks fine for the first Philly Free Streets event. Following positive feedback from pedestrians after closing major sections of roadways for last year’s papal visit, Philadelphia has decided to do it again.

Clarena Tolson, deputy managing director for the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems, joined NewsWorks Tonight’s Dave Heller to discuss the day of play.

The event is intended to allow Philadelphians to roam the streets, but Tolson said the fun is meant to address serious issues as well.

“Philadelphia has the highest rates of cardiovascular disease and hypertension in diabetes among the largest cities in this country. We want to do our part to engage people. To encourage more active transportation,” she said. “That means more walking, more biking to get about, to improve our city’s lot in regard to health.”

You can listen to the full conversation below.