Recently, multiple videos circulating on social media provide guidance on how to get to the World Cup stadium in New Jersey. Some netizens claim that the special train tickets offered by the New Jersey Transit during the event have skyrocketed from the usual $12.50 to $150, prompting many fans to consider walking approximately 10 miles from Manhattan to the stadium to save on transportation costs.
However, officials from New York and New Jersey have issued warnings to fans not to attempt walking from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, as walking along Interstate 95 is not only dangerous but also illegal. This practice is neither practical nor safe, posing a serious security risk.
The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) also stated in a release that Interstate highways including I-95 are designated for motor vehicles only in accordance with federal highway safety laws and state traffic regulations, prohibiting pedestrian access. Therefore, they “strongly discourage this behavior.”
Many New York netizens have also pointed out on social media platforms that there are hardly any pedestrian-friendly infrastructures along I-95, with narrow shoulders in some sections, heavy traffic throughout the day, and exceptionally high vehicle speeds, making walking extremely hazardous.
MetLife Stadium in New Jersey is one of the key hosting venues for this year’s World Cup, hosting several high-profile matches and the final, expected to attract a large number of domestic and international fans. The New Jersey Department of Transportation has previously urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel on match days, preferably working from home to alleviate traffic pressure.
Due to some match dates overlapping with peak commuting hours, especially on June 22 and June 30, authorities anticipate significant pressure on surrounding roads, train, and bus systems. Officials advise fans to plan their transportation in advance, prioritize using official designated public transportation services, and avoid risking walking to the stadium to prevent accidents.