Public Transportation During Major Events
Across the United States, planned major events — ranging from international sporting events to large-scale cultural gatherings — draw millions of visitors and capture global attention. Public transportation is critical to the success of events, serving as a primary means of moving people safely and efficiently. Transit agencies are key players in shaping the visitor experience, which leaves a lasting impact on how cities — and the nation — are perceived globally.
FTA supports transit agencies with planned major event preparation by offering direct technical assistance, often in the form of guidance and support regarding regulatory and other legal issues, appropriate uses of federal funds, and coordination on national and regional levels. Through these efforts, FTA is helping host communities and transit agencies showcase their vibrancy, hospitality, and infrastructure to the world.
What's New
- On April 10, 2026, FTA announced $94.3 million for public transportation supporting the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic games to help transit agencies meet increased demand.
- 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Funding Apportionments
- 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Funding Grant-Making Toolkit
- On March 3, 2026, FTA announced $100.3 million for public transportation supporting the 2026 FIFA World Cup to help ensure transit agencies can meet increased demand.
- News Release
- 2026 World Cup Public Transportation Funding FAQs
- FTA World Cup Funding Grant-Making Toolkit
- 2026 World Cup Funding Apportionments
- View the FTA 2026 World Cup Funding Webinar from March 11, 2026
Resources
FTA has developed multiple technical assistance resources to support transit agencies and host cities preparing for major events: