Atlanta prepares for traffic congestion for Copa America match and presidential debate

Atlanta is expected to face a major traffic challenge on Thursday due to the simultaneous occurrence of the U.S. men's national team's Copa America clash with Panama and the presidential debate. Both events will take place just a few hours apart within the city, causing concerns for potential transportation issues.

The Atlanta Police Department issued a statement urging individuals planning to be in the city to prepare for the expected traffic disruptions. The department emphasized the importance of planning ahead and considering alternative transportation options such as public transit or rideshare services.

USMNT's Game and Transportation Plans

The USMNT's game is scheduled to kick off at 6 p.m. local time at the Mercedes Benz Stadium, with seating capacity ranging from 42,500 to a maximum of 71,000. While the exact attendance for the Copa America group stage encounter is unknown, the city's public transportation system, MARTA, will be running additional trains to accommodate the expected crowd. The extra trains will commence operation two hours before the game to ensure swift and safe transportation for fans.

Debate and Potential Traffic Impact

Three hours later and merely three miles away at CNN's Atlanta studio, the presidential debate between President Joe Biden and Republican candidate Donald Trump will take place. Although the debate will not have a live audience and will not directly coincide with the game's schedule, road closures associated with the event are anticipated to contribute to the overall traffic congestion in the city.

Heavy traffic is expected in Atlanta on Thursday evening due to the combination of the soccer match and the presidential debate, leading to potential roadblocks and lane closures. The U.S. men's national team, following their victory against Bolivia on Sunday, aims to secure a spot in the round of 16 with a win in the upcoming match against Panama.