Massachusetts Launches ‘Kick the Drive’ Campaign To Ease World Cup Stadium Traffic

Massachusetts transportation officials are pleading with anyone traveling near or around Foxborough during the World Cup to plan ahead. The increased traffic that will result from thousands of people converging in one area has officials very concerned. That's why they're urging those who don't plan to attend the matches to avoid travel near the stadium on match days.

"FIFA is not your typical event," highway administrator Jonathan Gulliver said on Monday, May 4, in a statement shared with CBS News Boston WBZ. "This is like a Taylor Swift concert, playoff series, the World Series, and Super Bowl all in one place."

Seven matches are scheduled at Gillette Stadium — soon to be renamed "Boston Stadium" for the World Cup — between June 13 and July 9. All but one are on weekdays.

To that end, Massachusetts has unveiled a "Kick the Drive" public awareness campaign encouraging people to avoid traveling to the stadium on match days.

In the weeks leading up to the World Cup, Massachusetts transportation officials have launched various incentives to ease congestion on roadways leading to and from the stadium.

The MBTA Commuter Rail will run special trains from Boston's South Station to the stadium, accommodating 20,000 fans per match. Tickets are $80 round-trip. A World Cup bus service from Logan Airport, Providence, and hotels around Greater Boston to Boston Stadium is offering tickets at $95 per person.

"Dynamic bus lanes" on Route 1 near the stadium will help buses avoid getting caught in traffic.

Officials said those attending the matches should look for added signage to help keep traffic flowing. Gates will open three hours before kickoff, so arriving early is highly recommended. Keep in mind that all concession areas within the stadium will be cashless. Bag policies and security screenings are expected to be very tight, according to a Boston 25 News report. 

Jeevan Ramapriya, executive director of the Massachusetts Office of International Trade and Investment, explained to NBC10 Boston last week that more than 2 million visitors are expected. The World Cup is estimated to pump more than $70 million in revenue and a billion dollars into regional economic output.