Toll of Commuting: World Cup crowds straining transit as biggest matches and disruptions still ahead
Fans say getting to MetLife Stadium has been manageable so far, with many noting trains have been running on time despite the crowds.
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Commuting challenges are already emerging across New Jersey as World Cup matches bring large crowds to the area.
Fans say getting to MetLife Stadium has been manageable so far, with many noting trains have been running on time despite the crowds.
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However, concerns remain about cost, with NJ Transit tickets priced at $98.
“It’s not great, but at least this way, we know when we get off the train, we know where we’re going,” says soccer fan Lucas Rodrigues, from Connecticut.
Transit data shows more than 47,000 passengers used NJ Transit for the first two matches, about 59% of system capacity.
Another 28,000 used FIFA shuttle buses, reaching about 93% capacity.
Rideshare services have struggled the most, with long lines forming after games.
Officials with Uber say demand is too high for rideshare alone, encouraging more fans to take public transit.
Some drivers say traffic around the stadium has been the most frustrating part of the experience.
“Basically, it took an hour for us to walk out of the stadium… and two-and-a-half to drive out,” Sara-Jessica Dilks of Brooklyn.
Others say they chose trains to avoid traffic, even with the higher cost.
Fans and officials expect bigger challenges ahead as the tournament continues and attendance rises.
