World Cup Update from Mayor Nunziato Following Game 1

I wanted to give an official update regarding how Rutherford fared with the first of 8 World Cup games yesterday. Overall, traffic on Routes 17 and 3 was heavy but manageable 2-3 hours prior to the game. The only unexpected transportation issue was the closure of our Rutherford Train Station from approximately 2-6pm.

I was able to coordinate through the Bergen County Executive’s office with NJ Transit for that information. We hope this doesn’t happen again for the next games but we will provide the public up-to-date information as best we can in real time.

We had one incident with a Rutherford business located near the highways that unexpectedly offered parking and shuttles to the stadium, creating a problematic traffic issue that our Police Department was forced to manage. We ask that any business in town planning to profit from parking and shuttles at any point for the next 7 games to please notify the Rutherford Police Department so our resources can be distributed for the safety of all residents.

RPD had proactively approached businesses with parking lots prior to the games, asking for cooperation in this matter, and unfortunately the business in question was asked for open communication but was not forthcoming with their plans. I can assure you I will look into this further and the Borough will remain vigilant with these matters.

Our Borough Officials will continue to be responsive and proactive and maintain information flowing through our Public Information Office from our neighboring municipalities and agencies for the duration of the games. Thank you for your cooperation! We will offer updates following each game.