Providence, RI — In just a few weeks, Providence will welcome the world as Rhode Island hosts a historic “Summer of Soccer” tied to FIFA World Cup matches at Gillette Stadium. From June 11 through July 19, the City’s official FIFA sanctioned PVD FanZone at Station Park will serve as a gathering place for fans from around the globe to celebrate the world’s game in the heart of the Creative Capital.
“This is unlike any event Providence has hosted in terms of duration and international reach, but our police, fire, emergency management, and city teams have been preparing extensively,” said Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez. “Through planning, coordination, training, and partnerships with FIFA and state and federal agencies, we are confident Providence is ready to safely host the world.”
Extensive Public Safety Planning Underway
The City of Providence Department of Public Safety, in partnership with the Rhode Island State Police, Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA), Amtrak Police, FIFA representatives and private security partners, has established a unified command structure to oversee all operations related to the FanZone and surrounding events.
Public safety preparations include:
- A layered security plan throughout the FanZone and surrounding downtown area
- Uniformed police presence throughout the district
- A Mobile Command Center located on Finance Way where the public can seek assistance
- Four staffed entry points into the FanZone with security screening
- Alcohol service ending 30 minutes before FanZone closing each night
The FanZone will be fully secured and contained, with all attendees required to pass through designated security checkpoints before entering.
Prohibited Items and Security Policies
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, all guests entering the PVD FanZone will be subject to security screening. Guests will not be allowed to bring coolers, outside food and drink, drones, or weapons of any kind into the FanZone.
A full list of prohibited items is available here.
Only clear bags will be allowed inside the FanZone, and all bags will be subject to search.
Traffic and Road Closure Information
Visitors should expect increased traffic throughout downtown Providence during major match days and special events. With record-level attendance expected, the City strongly encourages attendees to ride RIPTA or carpool whenever possible. Using public transit or sharing a ride will help reduce congestion and make getting to and from the event easier for everyone.
Visitors can plan their trip or find a carpool match at DriveLessRI.com. For RIPTA trip-planning assistance, call 401-784-9400 ext. 2012 or email CustomerService@RIPTA.com
The following traffic impacts are expected:
- Finance Way will be closed during FanZone operations starting June 1, 2026 through August 1, 2026 from Francis Street to Exchange Terrace.
- Gaspee Street will be reduced to one lane between Smith Street and Francis Street starting June 1, 2026 through August 1, 2026.
- Travel on Gaspee Street from Smith Street to Francis Street will remain open, while opposing traffic will be closed. Possible full closures in both directions may be enacted on select event days.
- There will be designated areas for ride-share pickups and drop-offs (see map).
- Visitors who drive are encouraged to park at Providence Place and enter from Promenade Street.
- Temporary lane closures may occur near the Convention Center during large fan transportation operations.
RIPTA service adjustments will also be in effect throughout the duration of the FanZone:
- RIPTA Routes 50, 55, 56 and 57 will operate on detour all day and night from June 1 through July 30, 2026, due to the closure of Gaspee Street for FanZone operations.
Routes 50 and 55
- Inbound trips will travel the regular route to Smith Street and Gaspee Street, continue on Smith Street, turn left onto Francis Street and then resume the regular route.
- Outbound trips will travel the regular route to Francis Street, continue on Francis Street, turn right onto Smith Street and then resume the regular route.
Routes 56 and 57
- Inbound trips will travel the regular route to Smith Street and Francis Street, turn right onto Francis Street and then resume the regular route.
- Outbound trips will travel the regular route to Francis Street, continue on Francis Street, turn left onto Smith Street and then resume the regular route.
Additional traffic advisories and event maps, including FanZone entry points and emergency exits, will be available on the PVD FanZone website.
City Readies for International Crowds Amid Other Major Events
Among the first international fan groups to arrive will be supporters from Ghana and Scotland. Ghana’s national team delegation is expected Friday, June 12, with welcome events planned at Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport, followed by downtown Providence celebrations and training sessions at Bryant University.
Providence is also preparing for the arrival of Scotland’s famed “Tartan Army,” with an estimated 5,000 to 10,000 visitors expected around the June 13 Scotland vs. Haiti match festivities. The group plans to support local charitable efforts, including Hasbro Children’s Hospital and city beautification projects.
Visitors can find a full list of other events going on in downtown Providence here.
A Year of Preparation
Providence’s planning efforts began nearly a year ago in coordination with FIFA representatives and regional partners. Planning meetings have evolved from weekly coordination sessions to daily operational briefings as the event approaches.
“This is truly a full-department effort,” Chief Perez said. “Providence has experience managing large-scale festivals and events, but this requires an even greater level of coordination because of the international scope, extended timeline, and multiple events happening simultaneously across the city. We are prepared, flexible, and ready to welcome fans safely.”
The City asks all visitors and residents to remain patient, follow posted signage and security guidance, and plan ahead for transportation and parking.
Additional event information and FAQs can be found on the PVD FanZone website.
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