Toronto prepares for World Cup travel disruptions

Toronto is expecting major changes to travel downtown as it hosts six World Cup matches and a 22day fan festival beginning June 11. City officials say congestion will be heaviest on match days between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., and they are urging people to avoid driving and instead use transit, walk, or cycle. Several road closures will affect areas around Toronto Stadium, also known as BMO Field, and the FIFA Fan Festival sites at Fort York and The Bentway. Lake Shore Boulevard and parts of Liberty Village and Fort York will face restrictions, while taxi and ridehailing dropoff points will be set up nearby. Transit agencies are adding extra TTC streetcars, buses, subway service, and GO train frequency to handle the expected crowds. Exhibition GO Station will be a key access point, and temporary service changes will help connect Union Station, the stadium, and the fan festival. The city is also expanding cycling support, including bike valet service, added washrooms, and water fountains along key routes.