Santa Clara preps for activity surge as countdown underway for FIFA World Cup

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (KGO) -- With FIFA World Cup matches set to begin June 13 at Levi's Stadium, local businesses and residents are preparing for a surge in activity.

At Pizza My Heart in Santa Clara, employees say the Super Bowl offered a preview of what may be ahead.

"It was mad, but in a good way, because it was a lot of people. I mean, I've never seen something like that before in here," said Juan Pablo, a supervisor at Pizza My Heart.

The restaurant expects at least two to three times its usual number of customers during the tournament, as fans stop in before and after matches scheduled to take place over several weeks.

"In here, we're prepared. We're actually hiring more people. We're training more people. So, we're going to be ready when that day comes," Pablo said.

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Residents who live near the stadium say they are split on what to expect. The city of Santa Clara plans to establish a "special event zone" around Levi's Stadium, which includes road closures and restrictions on commercial activity in surrounding areas.

"I'm neutral. It's a bit inconvenient, but I'm just excited to see so many people to go around in this area," said Shih-Chieh, who lives nearby.

Others expressed confidence that transportation planning will help manage the crowds.

"I think with public transit, and then the roads that will be open, I think it'll be okay," said Carter Westfall, another nearby resident.

As preparations continue, community organizations are also gearing up. The Santa Clara County Rapid Response Network said it has been visiting local businesses this week to ensure they understand their rights if federal immigration enforcement occurs.

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"When events like this do happen, there's a lot of talking. There's a lot of things on social media, and it just gets a lot more recognition. So we want to make sure that our community has the right information," a representative said.

The Santa Clara City Council has also taken action, passing a resolution to update an existing ban on federal immigration officials conducting enforcement on city-owned or operated land.

"We are going to have one of the biggest events our town has ever seen. We are inviting people to go to these events, while federally we are going after immigrants. We are going after the very people we expect to come here and enjoy these events," said Councilmember Kevin Park.

Despite some concerns about traffic and restrictions, many in the area say they are looking forward to the event and its potential impact.

"All of us were super excited because this means a lot for us," Pablo said.