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Whatcom County warns of increased traffic as FIFA World Cup kicks off

Whatcom County warns of increased traffic as FIFA World Cup kicks off

The stadium in Seattle where FIFA matches are set to be held. Photo: Saga Communications/Dianna Hawryluk


WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Traffic on local roads may be getting busier as the FIFA World Cup gets underway.

Whatcom County Public Works warns travelers could see heavier traffic than usual now through early July as matches take place in Seattle and Vancouver, B.C.

The soccer tournament coincides with an already busy summer travel season, so anyone on the road is encouraged to plan for delays and keep up to date on current road conditions.

WSDOT’s Real-Time Travel Map provides the latest impacts to I-5 and state highways, while the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website has current wait times at ports of entry.

The World Cup kicked off Thursday, June 11, and the U.S. plays its first match against Paraguay at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 12. Vancouver will host its first match on Saturday night before the action comes to Seattle Monday afternoon.

This comes as Amtrak’s Vancouver station has received the first U.S. preclearance designation in hopes of promoting faster travel time during this year’s World Cup.

Bellingham will be hosting many events and watch parties throughout the tournament as an official Fan Zone.

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