At the World Cup, New York City Will Not Be “Parking the Bus”

New York Governor Kathy Hochul, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (NYMTA) CEO Janno Lieber joined others in a news conference to discuss the city’s plans for the upcoming World Cup games. The first match is scheduled for June 13.

Speakers discussed the years of planning for the event, including extensive training exercises. Changes include additional cameras and drones, platform barriers, and LED lighting. Patrols—eyes and ears on the ground—will be ramped up while cameras will be monitored in real time. The governor mentioned that subway crime is down to a 16-year low and dropped another 6 percent since last year. “We can handle this, we got this, this is what we do best!” said Governor Hochul.

Mayor Mamdani said, during the games, “many a nation will park the bus—a legitimate strategic approach on the field—New York City will not be parking the bus.” He described how city workers and leaders have been meeting and setting up emergency plans, including keeping residents informed. Regarding traffic, residents should expect congestion and road restrictions on match days.

Lieber talked about the important role of public transportation during events like the World Cup. “Mass transit is what makes it possible for us to have these huge events.” He reminded the audience that “moving millions is what we do.” NYMTA will have additional subway service on key lines to move fans efficiently on match days.  

New York City DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn discussed plans to keep streets functioning and minimize disruptions. “Take transit, enjoy the World Cup, and let the games begin.”