Police Prepare for Bike Race

The athletes aren't the only ones gearing up for the 27th annual Philadelphia International Championship bike race June 5th, so are the police. 

Although he could not disclose a specific number, 5th District police office Charles Kline said there would be an increased police presence in the area for the event. 

Sponsored by TD Bank and presented by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the bike race's website states that the 156-mile route is the longest running and most important single-day cycling road race in the United States. 

Although the race is set for Sunday, Kline said the problem is some have started celebrating the iconic race on Friday. 

"That's when people don't make the best decisions," he said, adding that weather plays a part in the turnout. 

Bad weather and hot weather, the officer said, usually keep some people at home. Sunday's forecast predicts temperatures in the high 80s. 

Although the bike race may have a reputation for rowdy crowds, Kline said the disorderly behavior has actually decreased in recent years. 

But a press release from the department still cautioned race-goers to refrain from public drunkenness, underage drinking, disorderly behavior, public urination and unruly house parties. 

The aformentioned behaviors, it continued, will result in arrest, fine or community service. 

"We know that 99 percent of people are just having a good time," Kline said. "We are not here to give people a hard time.