South El Paso closures concern residents

what el paso police say will happen for some parts of the segundo barrio during the pope’s visit. residents are concerned. officials say it’s for their safety. abc-7’s jerry najera was at a community meeting where police laid out the details jerry? rick estela police officials are saying they are worried hundreds of people will realize they won’t be able to drive across the bridge and try to park in south el paso neighborhoods- creating a traffic mess for residents wednesday afternoon south el paso moves along like any other day. kids enjoying a day at the park after school and others out for a walk. but many don’t know- on the day of the pope’s visit-their everyday routine will change “the neighborhood that we’r closing down, the downtown neighborhood, there will bill no traffic into or out of that neighborhood with the exception of the residents who live there” tak a look at this map the closures will take place between paisano- cambell and the border highway that’s about 50 blocks-hundreds of homes and dozens of business “i don’t think everyone is prepared for all this” “that’s going to b hectic” “it’s just akwar because im used to everything being open around here and everybody in the streets and walking around” police say with traffic heading towards the santa fe bridge and many just trying to get a glimpse of the pope they are only doing this for two reasons “to protect you’r neighborhood as well as the pope” but there are some vali concerns-jerry valles works for the la fe clinic and he asked about people coming in for their doctors appointments “will our client be able to come in that day to see the doctor or are you suggesting to close down? we would prefer you close down if possible” once closed residents will be able to drive out of the area but they would need a pass to get back in. but after 2 pm they will completely close the area to traffic until 8 pm. they are also discouraging pedestrain traffic as well. although it might be an inconvienience el paso police are gauranteeing one thing. ” you’re going to see an awful lot of police officers in your neighborhood this area will be safe on the 17th i assure you that” police did say they will work with the clinic in the area so people can see their doctors if needed. another thing to note is that for all of those 50 blocks or so that will be closed -there will only be one entrance and exit for that area. the diocese of el paso revealed another performer for the sun bowl event leading up to the pope’s mass.