In preparation for Pope Francis' visit to the United States, many of the area transit companies will be increasing the ways to get into New York and Philadelphia to see the papal events.
Pope Francis will be in Manhattan on Sept. 24 and 25. New Jersey Transit will be adding midday buses and trains and may double bus services in anticipation.
"For our commuters, we ask them to be patient. We know that we're going to have some new people in the transit system," says NJ Transit Executive Director Ronnie Hakim.
To help with the navigation of the transit system, NJ Transit will also have approximately 600 "ambassadors" to help guide travelers wishing to see the pope.
New York's Penn Station is expected to be extremely busy during the visit, so travelers may also wish to take PATH trains into Manhattan from Hoboken or Newark. Additional PATH service will be added from the 33rd Street station on Sept. 25.
NY Waterways says it will keep its regular schedule for the time being, but says that the company can add extra boats if needed.
Pope Francis will visit Philadelphia on Sept. 26 and 27. NJ Transit trains into Philadelphia will be increased and SEPTA is increasing their service as well.