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Debate and soccer match expected to gridlock Atlanta traffic

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(NewsNation) — Atlanta authorities are warning residents to plan for gridlock on roadways Thursday night as the city is set to host not just the first presidential debate but also a U.S men’s soccer match less than three miles away.

The major double header is expected to cause major traffic delays and disruptions, Atlanta authorities are warning. 

“If you are planning an evening out in Atlanta, for the game, dinner or any other of our offerings, we encourage you to plan ahead and anticipate limited parking and heavier than usual traffic,” Atlanta police said in an advisory earlier this week. 

CNN signage is seen outside of the McCamish Pavilion on the Georgia Institute of Technology campus one day ahead of the first 2024 presidential debate between US President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 26, 2024. (Photo by ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP) (Photo by ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images)

“There will be several road closures in the areas surrounding the debate and your route could be impacted. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination and plan for parking spaces to fill quickly.”

The debate between President Biden and former President Trump will be held at CNN’s Atlanta Studios Thursday night. The two will square in a highly anticipated event that will put them in the same forum after four years. 

The event will not have a studio audience but the Secret Service is expected to direct lane and street closures near the studios with the potential for rolling roadblocks on the Downtown Connector, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority said on their website. 

Three hours before the presidential square-off, the U.S. men’s national team will face Panama in the Copa América at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. 

MARTA said it would provide additional rail service Thursday to accommodate the likely large public transit turnout.