Debate, football game to block traffic in Atlanta

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(NewsNation) — Atlanta officials are warning residents to expect traffic jams Thursday night as the city prepares to host not only the first presidential debate but also a men’s soccer game less than three miles away.

Atlanta authorities warn that this double major event is expected to cause significant delays and traffic disruptions.

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

“There will be several road closures in the vicinity of the debate and your itinerary may be impacted. Please allow extra time to reach your destination and expect parking to fill up quickly.”

The debate between President Biden and former President Trump will take place Thursday evening at CNN’s Atlanta studios. The two men will face off in a highly anticipated event that will reunite them in the same forum after four years.

The event will not have a live studio audience, but the Secret Service is expected to order 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 its website.

Three hours before the presidential match, the United States 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 likely high transit ridership.