NJ Transit prepares for possible Knicks, World Cup travel overlap
NJ Transit says trains will prioritize World Cup service at MetLife Stadium, with PATH, buses and Amtrak among options for Knicks fans traveling to Madison Square Garden.
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NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri says the agency is prepared for a potential overlap between the World Cup and a Knicks NBA Finals game at Madison Square Garden.
“This is like taking an exam, I just want to get it over with. I know for a fact we are ready. My folks are itching to get this going, so bring it on,” Kolluri said.
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France plays Senegal at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday, June 16, at 3 p.m. If a Game 6 is necessary, the Knicks will host their Western Conference opponent at Madison Square Garden at 8:30 p.m.
Kolluri said fans from New Jersey would be able to get to Madison Square Garden for a potential Game 6 next month, even if it comes hours after a World Cup match at MetLife Stadium. But he said fans who do not travel at least three hours early would have to transfer to PATH into New York City, because NJ Transit trains would be focused on soccer service.
“Can I first of all say, I'm actually genuinely surprised at the doubters of the Knicks. I expect [the] Knicks to win 4-0. So this is not even going to get to Game 6,” Kolluri said.
Kolluri said buses and Amtrak are among other options if the game takes place. He also noted factors outside NJ Transit’s control, including heat-related issues that can affect Amtrak’s system.
“That's one of the reasons why we've ordered 385 buses to move people, should there be a disruption on the system. It is not going to be a perfect situation if Amtrak has a failure on the corridor, but we have made a provision for it and we will execute on that,” Kolluri said.
Kolluri called the potential sports overlap “a great moment for New Jersey” and the region.
“Maybe for once, as a human being we should celebrate that,” he said.
