New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill addressed reports that NJ Transit fares from MetLife Stadium to New York Penn Station could exceed $100 on FIFA World Cup matchdays, pushing back on the potential burden for commuters.
The governor’s reaction
In a video posted to social media, Sherrill, who took office in January, said she wanted to clarify “exactly where things stand” amid growing concern over World Cup transportation costs in New Jersey.
“Our administration inherited an agreement where FIFA is providing $0 for transportation to the World Cup – zero. That leaves NJ Transit with a $48 million bill to safely move 40,000 fans to and from every game,” Sherrill said.
“At the same time, FIFA is making $11 billion off this World Cup and charging fans up to $10,000 for a single ticket for the final.”
“I won’t stick New Jersey’s commuters with that tab for years to come – that’s not fair. So here’s the bottom line: FIFA should pay for the rides, but if they don’t, I’m not going to let New Jersey commuters get taken for one.”
MetLife Stadium will host eight matches during the tournament, including the final on July 19. NJ Transit services at Penn Station are also expected to face major restrictions on matchdays, with access limited to ticketed fans.
Parking will also be prohibited at MetLife Stadium, despite thousands of available spaces at the Meadowlands Sports Complex, as lots will be used for fan operations and security.
Current NJ Transit fares from East Rutherford to Penn Station are just under $13, making the potential World Cup pricing a major point of controversy.
The Athletic also reported there will be no fare differences for seniors, children or passengers with disabilities, with a final pricing decision expected in the coming days.
Last week, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority announced $80 fares from Boston to Gillette Stadium, while Boston organizers also confirmed $95 shuttle bus tickets to Foxborough.
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