NJ Transit to address World Cup ticket prices, commuter alternatives during press conference
NEW JERSEY (WABC) -- Who's footing the bill to get to the FIFA World Cup?
That's the question on everyone's mind as New Jersey gears up to host eight games at MetLife stadium.
Governor Mikie Sherill says the skyrocketing transportation costs have a $50-million price tag.
One that she's not willing to pass on to commuters.
Ticket prices have been a hot topic, but we may have to wait a bit longer for an answer. Transportation officials on Friday will be talking about how NJ Transit service is going to be impacted.
Four hours before those matches, NJ Transit service from New York Penn Station to New Jersey is expected to be suspended, exclusively going to MetLife Stadium only.
Friday's press conference is happening to discuss what alternatives there are for commuters during those four hours when service could be restricted.
Four World Cup matches are during the week, so this service disruption will impact the afternoon commute for many people.
There have been rumors recently that a round trip New Jersey Transit ticket to attend the FIFA World Cup could cost up to $150. The normal price is $12.90.
A set price has not been announced yet, so that's a big question still, and it may be brought up at Friday's press conference or we may have to wait a bit longer for an answer.
NJ Transit says it's going to cost around $48 million to provide service during the World Cup, primarily because of extra security.
Gov. Sherrill says she doesn't want to pass that cost onto every everyday commuters.
She released a video on social media saying FIFA should pay for the rides, but FIFA says that's not part of the original deal.
"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," Sherrill said.
Sherrill says her predecessor set up the deal.
Many NJ Transit riders and soccer fans are saying paying potentially up to $150 to get to a match is just way too much.
"It's unfathomable. Not fair," a commuter said.
"I can't enjoy myself knowing that and then I have to feed my family, if I take my family too. I can't sit there for two, three hours and not get them something to eat. I love the sport, but it's getting too pricey for me," another person said.
FIFA released a statement saying, "FIFA is not aware of any other major event previously held at NY-NJ Stadium, including other major sports, global concert tours, etc, where organizers were required to pay for fan transportation."
They added, "The original FIFA World Cup 2026 host city agreements signed in 2018 required free transportation for fans to all matches."
The press conference is set to be held at 11:30 a.m.
There is parking available at the American Dream Mall. Those prices are set by FIFA and could run over $200 per space.
Those who park at the mall will have access to mall festivities and celebrations.
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