With the FIFA World Cup starting this week, and games beginning in North Texas on June 14, increased traffic on major roadways is unavoidable.
The commute to and from nine matches in Arlington, a FIFA Fan Festival taking over Fair Park and the International Broadcasting Center closing downtown roads have locals worried about the impact on their daily lives.
The North Central Texas Council of Governments proposed residents make “temporary, voluntary adjustments.” Regional transportation authorities are urging local North Texas residents to minimize their time on the roads during the World Cup’s tenure in the area.
“We are telling people to look at alternate routes, if possible,” said Karla Windsor, the council’s senior program manager of land-use and mobility options.
The council is advising local residents to change their commute times, either leaving for work earlier or later to avoid congestion on major roadways, or taking a completely different route. Regional officials said if residents must travel, they should consider carpooling and combining errands into fewer trips and less time on the road. Employers are encouraged to “consider offering flexible work or telework options” on match days.
“We encourage residents to check travel information before heading out and consider small adjustments on match days,” said Natalie Bettger, the council’s senior program manager of congestion management and system, in a news release. “By planning ahead, we can help keep North Texas moving while welcoming visitors from around the world.”
More than one million visitors are expected to be in D-FW over the course of the event. This means more drivers on the roads could increase toll prices on certain North Texas highways. Regional officials have stated these numbers are just estimates, and even more people could be in North Texas at that time.
The council is using billboards, social media and radio advertisements to share information regarding the games and prompting people to be mindful of how much time they spend on the road.
“It is critical that we welcome our international guests this summer,” said Michael Morris, the council’s director of transportation.
The cities of Dallas and Arlington are not putting up any signage or encouraging residents to work from home or avoid the roads. Both cities are urging their residents to plan ahead and prepare for the onslaught of international visitors.