TO: AC Transit Board of Directors
FROM: Salvador Llamas, General Manager/Chief Executive Officer
SUBJECT: Application for 2026 FIFA World Cup Grants
ACTION ITEM
AGENDA PLANNING REQUEST: ?
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
Title
Consider authorizing the General Manager, or his designee, to file and execute applications and agreements for 2026 FIFA World Cup assistance grants.
Staff Contact:
Chris Andrichak, Chief Financial Officer
Body
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE:
Goal - Safe and Secure Operations
Initiative - Financial Efficiency and Revenue Maximization
Grant funding will support AC Transit's ability to safely manage increased travel demand and wayfinding support for riders during the 2026 FIFA World Cup while reducing potential overtime costs that would otherwise need to be funded via the operating budget.
BUDGETARY/FISCAL IMPACT:
No matching funds are anticipated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup grants. Additionally, these funds would reduce potential overtime and consultant staff costs that would otherwise need to be funded via the operating budget.
BACKGROUND/RATIONALE:
The 2026 World Cup will bring six soccer matches, featuring teams from seven nations, to the San Francisco Bay Area (Levi's) Stadium in Santa Clara this June. The Bay Area Host Committee (BAHC) anticipates a surge in ridership on match days and is calling for modified service hours and enhanced operational, safety, and customer support from transit agencies. As one of the Bay Area's regional connectors, AC Transit may ramp up services and/or other rider assistance elements to smoothly transport visitors and FIFA volunteers from Oakland airport and hotels to the Stadium, while easing the impact of increased passenger volumes on local riders who depend on AC Transit services for their daily travel. Increased transportation to Alameda, training home of the Australian soccer team, may also be needed for supporters and other interested parties in the area.
In preparation for the release of ...
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