FRAMINGHAM, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — The city of Framingham will not seek state funding to host events like celebrations and watch parties during the World Cup later this year, citing safety concerns during the tournament.
During a meeting with city councilors earlier this month, Framingham Police Chief Lester Baker said the state does not have enough resources to make sure Framingham can host World Cup-related events safely, especially given World Cup and MA250 events that have already been scheduled in other cities.
"This isn't just not wanting to do things," Baker said. "This is a matter of public safety. Now, I hope I'm wrong and all these events go smoothly, but how would you feel if I knew that and something went south?"
The World Cup starts June 11. Seven matches will be played at Foxborough's Gillette Stadium — which has been renamed Boston Stadium — starting on June 13.
The state of Massachusetts has set aside millions of dollars for cities and towns to hold watch parties and celebrations. Communities including Boston, Worcester, and Foxborough have already been awarded grants to host events.
Some Framingham city councilors still think their city should secure funding too.
"We have the largest concentration of Brazilians in any place outside of Brazil," City Councilor John Stefanini said. "Ignoring that [the World Cup] is coming isn't going to stop it from coming."
WBZ NewsRadio's Jay Willett (@JayWillettWBZ) reports.