New Jersey officials are encouraging residents to work remotely or adjust travel schedules on FIFA World Cup match days as large crowds head to MetLife Stadium and transit systems face increased demand.
New Jersey Transit and Gov. Mikie Sherrill are urging commuters to consider working from home on World Cup match days to reduce congestion and ease transportation demands as thousands of soccer fans travel to and from North Jersey for tournament events.
The guidance has drawn attention as state officials ask New Jersey residents to alter their schedules while transportation agencies prepare for an influx of visitors attending World Cup matches in the region.
NJ Transit issued a public advisory ahead of Monday’s match, warning of rail service impacts during the evening commute from New York City.
“If possible, consider working from home,” NJ Transit said in a post on X. “If you must travel and your schedule is flexible, consider leaving NYC before 3 p.m. or after 7 p.m. to avoid service impacts.”
Transit Agency Warns of Rush Hour Disruptions
The agency said the June 22 World Cup match would bring rail service adjustments during the evening rush period as officials manage increased passenger volumes.
NJ Transit advised riders to plan ahead and review alternate travel options before heading into New York City or returning to New Jersey.
Officials have repeatedly promoted public transportation as the primary means of getting fans to matches at MetLife Stadium, where several World Cup games are being played.
The agency also encouraged travelers to purchase tickets in advance using the NJ Transit mobile app to reduce delays.
Governor Encourages Remote Work
Gov. Mikie Sherrill echoed the recommendation in a social media post ahead of another World Cup match day.
“Another World Cup match day is here in New Jersey,” Sherrill wrote.
“If your schedule allows, consider working remotely to help reduce congestion during the busiest travel periods.”
The governor also encouraged soccer fans attending matches to use NJ Transit.
“If you’re headed to the match, NJ TRANSIT is your best option,” Sherrill said. “Remember to purchase your tickets in advance on the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App.”
State Preparing for Surge of Visitors
The FIFA World Cup is expected to bring hundreds of thousands of visitors to the New York-New Jersey region throughout the tournament, creating additional pressure on roadways, rail lines, and transit hubs.
Transportation officials have spent months preparing for increased demand, with NJ Transit implementing special service plans and operational adjustments for match days.
State officials say the goal is to reduce congestion, improve passenger flow, and ensure fans can travel to and from matches safely and efficiently.
For many regular commuters, however, the recommendations mean adjusting work schedules or avoiding traditional rush-hour travel windows during some of the tournament’s busiest days.
Key Points
• NJ Transit is encouraging commuters to work from home or adjust travel times on World Cup match days.
• Gov. Mikie Sherrill also urged residents to consider remote work to help reduce congestion.
• Officials are preparing for large crowds traveling to World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium and say NJ Transit is the preferred transportation option.
