World Cup traffic creates long lines but stays organized, easing citywide fears

For a city like Boston, transportation has always been one of the major pressure points when hosting the World Cup.

The MBTA has long been preparing to figure out how to bring thousands of fans to Foxboro’s Gillette Stadium, which has been rebranded as Boston Stadium for the global soccer phenomenon. Private rail services were added, and changes were made to the city-wide service for match days.

Amid all the planning, city officials and local residents still had their fair share of concerns. From expensive train tickets to even more expensive bus tickets to warnings to drivers to avoid the area, the city seemed to be holding its breath.

But after all those concerns, Boston is off to a good start. Although fans complained about crowded trains, long queues, and high prices, they generally remained in good spirits.

“I was really shocked at how organized, on time and smooth they were,” said Rosalvo Valsimonde, a World Cup fan. Boston Globe. “All the fans, all the different cultures together on the same train – everyone was so supportive and respectful.”

Neither Boston Police nor Massachusetts State Police reported any arrests as of Saturday night, according to The Guardian globe. The biggest disturbance was Sprawling lines Outside South Station for fans waiting to board their railway trains.

Jake O’Neill, a spokesman for rail operator Keolis, said those lines were longer than expected and caused passengers to arrive “well before their boarding time.” globe. However, the trip itself “went as planned” and remained organised.