PITTSBURGH (PTTP) – The 2026 NFL Draft is slated to attract 500,000 to 700,000 football fans to the Steel City over the course of three days. But, these numbers have left many Pittsburghers wondering, how will everyone fit?
Amidst road closures and packed parking throughout the North Shore and Downtown, Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) is encouraging attendees to use public transportation. Pittsburgh’s light-rail, the T, and the Monongahela Incline will be free during the draft, after a donation from Sheetz. Similarly, Pittsburgh’s temporary, draft-designed bus routes, the “Football Flyers”, are free following donations from the Pittsburgh Organizing Committee and The Pittsburgh Foundation.
To accommodate the additional lines, traffic, and riders, standard PRT lines have been adjusted. Most bus routes will operate on their less frequent Saturday schedules, while some are fully cut for the three-day period. As for the T, train cars will be run more often for shorter, more consistent wait times. A full list of changes can be found on the PRT’s website.
Despite the traffic, Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor said this influx of tourists will be worth it.
“Look, it’s gonna be hard to get around,” said Mayor O’Connor to Axios News, “I’m not gonna lie. It’s gonna take an extra half-hour, sometimes an hour, but think about the experience you’re gonna have.”
The city and NFL have planned a full list of activities, including live music, games, and food, spread across the three-day event. Mayor O’Connor believes, regardless of the out-of-towners, this event is for Pittsburghers.
“This is for us. You know, the NFL Draft is gonna be gone Saturday night… Now all of this benefit, all the infrastructure is for Pittsburghers, so we want you to be here… I encourage everybody to be here.”
VisitPittsburgh estimates the draft will directly generate $115 to $215 million in local spending. Additionally, $3.8 to 5.6 million could be collected in Allegheny County taxes from rentals, sales, and food.