With the FIFA World Cup just weeks away from arriving in Houston, officials are preparing for a massive influx of visitors and major traffic impacts across the city.
An estimated 500,000 visitors are expected to travel to Houston over 39 days for World Cup matches and related events.
To help residents and commuters prepare, the Houston-Galveston Area Council has launched a new website designed to help people navigate traffic and transportation challenges during the tournament.
The site, Commute Game Plan, includes:
Match schedules
Park-and-ride maps
A “Build Your Commute Plan” feature
Employer planning toolkits
Transportation and traffic resources
Officials say the tool was created to help residents, employers, and visitors plan ahead and reduce congestion while the World Cup is in town.
In addition to matches at NRG Stadium, Houston will also be hosting Fan Fest activities, Houston Astros games, concerts at Toyota Center, and other major events simultaneously.
Officials warn travel demand during major event days could increase congestion levels by as much as 50% in key corridors, including:
The South Loop
The West Loop
Highway 288
The increased demand is also expected to impact roadways, transit systems, and parking facilities throughout the Houston area.
Transportation leaders are encouraging Houstonians to plan commutes ahead of time, consider alternative transportation options, and allow extra travel time during the World Cup period.
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