LYNN — As anticipation builds for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, City Councilors Jordan Avery and Cardeliz Paez are working to ensure the city is prepared to benefit from the global event’s economic and cultural impact, an effort they have been discussing since day one in the office.
With nearby Boston and Foxborough set to host several matches, city leaders say Lynn is uniquely positioned to draw visitors, support small businesses, and bring residents together. Avery said the conversation is already underway, even as many details remain in development.
Following a recent city council meeting, Avery said he “Found that it was pretty critical to at least… begin a broader conversation, because it will have ripple effects across…our surrounding communities and here.”
Avery emphasized that early coordination has included meetings with local organizations such as the North Shore Latino Business Association, the Lynn Chamber of Commerce, and other community groups. The goal, he said, is to align efforts and ensure small businesses are prepared to take advantage of increased foot traffic.
“We’ve had separate meetings… to try to really coordinate our response from a city perspective and how we can support, most importantly, our small businesses and really a chance to drive…economic activity,” Avery explained.
Although the city was unsuccessful in securing an initial grant tied to World Cup preparations, Avery said the setback highlights the need for continued planning.
One major piece still pending is the city’s viewing license, which would allow Lynn to host official watch parties. Avery and Paez are considering several potential locations, including Manning Field and Fraser Field, while also evaluating indoor options and backup plans.
“So in other words, if we are having a viewing, what’s that look like in our community, right?” Avery said. “Making sure we have a public safety standpoint, making sure our residents feel safe and… it’s in a secure and safe environment.”
Avery added that a separate public safety grant could help offset costs associated with large gatherings.
Beyond logistics, he stressed the importance of community participation and local pride.
“I think the biggest thing here is really trying to get our local community together,” he said. “We live in a beautiful city where… the culture really connects with the real opportunity.”
That cultural connection is central to Lynn’s potential role during the World Cup. The city’s diverse population, including many immigrant communities with deep ties to soccer, presents opportunities for culturally focused events and programming.
“There’s no reason and no excuse why we’re not at the table discussing this and having a larger and better response,” Avery said, pointing to the sport’s global reach and local relevance.
Paez echoed those sentiments during the meeting, highlighting the scale of the World Cup and its projected regional impact.
She noted that the tournament will run from mid-June through late July and is expected to draw millions of visitors to Massachusetts, generating significant revenue and thousands of jobs.
Páez emphasized that Lynn, located just a short commuter rail ride from Boston, could benefit from that influx, particularly if the city successfully organizes events and supports local businesses.
She also underscored the importance of ensuring immigrant communities feel included, noting the excitement surrounding national teams that resonate with Lynn residents.
Both councilors pointed to collaboration as a key factor moving forward. Avery said discussions are ongoing with city departments, economic development groups, and business organizations to “exhaust… all resources to make this as successful as possible.”
He also highlighted the potential for youth involvement, including volunteer opportunities and connections to existing summer jobs programs.
“I think we can always use… our youth who want to volunteer and get involved in their community,” Avery said.
For Avery, who noted he and Paez have been in office for roughly 100 days, the World Cup represents both a challenge and an opportunity to think long-term.
“We’re learning as we go,” he said. “But at the same time… we want to see our city move forward. And then these types of activities and events are very important.”
As planning continues, their focus remains on keeping residents engaged, supporting small businesses, and ensuring Lynn plays an active role in one of the world’s largest sporting events.
