Roundtable discusses importance of PA’s connection to cities
World will be focused on Philadelphia as region hosts international events
Rep. Morgan B. Cephas March 4, 2025 | 1:34 PM
PHILADELPHIA, March 4 – Pennsylvania’s economy and work force depend on being connected to communities across the region and world class cities. Philadelphia will continue to play a major role in driving the economy, attracting visitors from across the region, nation and globe to Pennsylvania.
“The planning has already begun for the international events scheduled for Philadelphia during the next two years and plans continue to adapt as officials learn from hosting other premier events,” said Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas, who represents portions of West Philadelphia. “Philadelphia will host the sesquicentennial of the U.S. Navy and Marines, MLB All-Star games, NCAA men’s basketball tournament games, FIFA World Cup games and America’s 250th birthday during the next two years. Beyond these signature events, infrastructure across Pennsylvania needs continued investment in order for the commonwealth to thrive.”
The PA House Majority Policy Committee held a joint roundtable in Philadelphia Tuesday. The Philadelphia House Delegation hosted the event and members of Philadelphia City Council joined state lawmakers. Lawmakers and city council members discussed the overview of the city and region’s police, power, safety and operations plan for a series of major events in 2026.
During the roundtable, lawmakers heard a recap about some of the region’s previous significant events. Learning from the Phillies World Series parade in 2008, organizers realized limiting some services allowed 320,000 people to ride into Philadelphia for the Eagles Super Bowl parade in February in express-style fashion – all while working to minimize delays. An estimated 98% of transit officers worked the Super Bowl parade, and the use of cameras allowed officials to make decisions and move personnel to keep people safe. Despite an estimated crowd of 400,000 people, officers reported fewer service calls for transit officers during the Super Bowl parade than an average day.
“While a major event might be the driving force to bringing people into our cities, these large gatherings also have the ability to bring a community together – not to mention boosting businesses,” Cephas said. “When our city’s teams do well, the region and state economy also reap benefits. These big events will continue to keep Philadelphia on the international stage and serve as an engine for Pennsylvania’s economy.”
Information about this hearing and other PA House Majority Policy Committee hearings can be found at pahouse.com/policy.