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New Jersey Transit has announced a reduction in the cost of train tickets to MetLife Stadium for the upcoming World Cup matches. The ticket price has been lowered to $98, a significant decrease from the initially proposed $150. This adjustment comes after efforts by New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill to secure private sponsorships to offset costs. According to NBC New York, Governor Sherrill emphasized the importance of not burdening New Jersey commuters and taxpayers with FIFA-related transportation expenses.
The revised ticket price is still higher than the usual $13 fare, but it reflects a 30% reduction from the initial proposal. The tickets, available starting Friday, are non-transferable and non-refundable, and must be purchased through NJ Transit's mobile app. The agency plans to accommodate over 78,000 spectators per match, with 40,000 round-trip tickets available for each event.
In addition to train tickets, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced a reduction in the price of round-trip shuttle bus rides from the Port Authority Bus Terminal or Grand Central Terminal to MetLife Stadium. The bus fare has been slashed from $80 to $20, as reported by NJ.com.
The adjustments follow criticism from FIFA, which warned that high transit prices could deter fans from attending matches. Other U.S. host cities, like Los Angeles and Dallas, have maintained lower fares. Despite the price cuts, NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri stated that the agency aims to recover the $48 million in additional costs associated with the tournament.
The World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium will run from June 13 to July 19, with the final match scheduled for July 19. Fans are encouraged to plan their travel in advance, as there will be no general parking at the stadium, and limited rideshare options will be available.
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