With the FIFA World Cup kicking off this summer, the excitement will bring not only international attention but also a significant uptick in travel across the region.
As major events unfold in and around the New York and New Jersey area, local transportation systems will experience impacts to freight and goods movements.
The Office of Freight Planning at the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) released new guidance to help manage freight operations throughout June and July. The world’s largest soccer tournament will run from June 11 to July 19 with eight matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium, including the July 19 final.
NJDOT encourages freight stakeholders to plan ahead by adjusting delivery windows, rescheduling non-essential trips outside peak match periods, and identifying alternate routes where possible.
Freight and delivery operators should be aware of specific dates and times when travel will be especially challenging, as outlined in the match schedule:
- Saturday, June 13, 6 p.m.
- Tuesday, June 16, 3 p.m.
- Monday, June 22, 8 p.m.
- Thursday, June 25, 4 p.m.
- Saturday, June 27, 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, June 30, 5 p.m.
- Sunday, July 5, 4 p.m.
- Sunday, July 19, 3 p.m.
These conditions should not be viewed as routine congestion. There will be heavier traffic and altered traffic patterns. Match-day traffic is expected to resemble the impacts typically associated with major emergency situations or severe weather events, with limited opportunities to recover once congestion develops.
Municipalities are encouraged to share this information widely, with local businesses, business improvement districts, economic development groups, and any other relevant stakeholders.