Philadelphia City Hall Adds Security Measures

Philadelphia City Hall installed an X-ray machine and metal detector at its entrance during the holidays, according to KYW Newsradio 1060.

• By Jessica Davis
• Jan 31, 2019

Philadelphia City Hall installed an X-ray machine and metal detector at its entrance during the holidays, according to KYW Newsradio 1060.

City spokesman Mike Dunn said the new security measures are part of an upgrade planned for all three of Philadelphia’s main office buildings.

"There's no specific incident that's prompted this in any way. I think it's just a general acknowledgement that security can always be enhanced," Dunn said.

There have been no serious problems at the checkpoint thus far, but there are concerns that wait times will increase. With the old security system, the line to enter for a city council session often extended outside the door, and wait times will increase if the new security slows things down.

Dunn said officials will keep an eye on proceedings.

"It's also possible that this might speed things up. So we'll keep a close eye on it and if there are adjustments that need to be made, we'll do it," he said.

A spokesperson said that despite the new security measures, City Council will keep its own metal detector and X-ray machine installed outside its chambers on the fourth floor of the building.