Installation of screens begins on Paseo de la Reforma ahead of Mexico-England match, traffic restrictions imposed

Preparations are gaining pace on the Paseo de la Reforma, one of Mexico City's busiest avenues, for those wishing to watch the thrilling football match between Mexico and England in a public area. Within this scope, the installation of giant screens for the purpose of watching match broadcasts along the route extending from the Diana Cazadora statue to Estela de Luz officially began this Friday. Within the scope of the works, two main structures were positioned on the median strip, which separates the two directions of traffic on the avenue, and broadcast equipment was mounted upon them. These physical arrangements led to the closure of one lane on both sides of the avenue to traffic, forcing drivers to use alternative routes.

When examining the details of the installation process, it is seen that the points where the screens are placed are of strategic importance; one of the structures was brought to the junction of Burdeos Street and the other to Toledo Street, positioning it directly opposite the Social Security Institute (IMSS) building in the Juárez neighborhood. Mexico City Government Head Clara Brugada Molina announced that for the critical match to be played on Sunday, they would not only be content with the current works, but would expand the viewing area from Estela de Luz to Hidalgo Street by adding 6 additional screens. Within the scope of these expansion works, intense activity is being maintained in the Glorieta de la Diana area, where in addition to the existing structures, two new structures are being prepared for screen installation.

All preparations in the region are being carried out meticulously to minimize the negatives that the expected crowd could create on match day; in images released by the authorities, workers are seen continuing assembly operations by taking safety precautions at heights. However, in local inspections conducted in the lower parts of Hidalgo Street, it was determined that no work has yet begun regarding the installation of new screens and the construction team was not present in that area. Although all these arrangements are planned to allow citizens in the city to watch this match of an international tournament nature with pleasure, it is a situation that is expected to cause serious disruptions in urban transportation.

There is an extensive organization plan that is not limited only to screen installation; municipal authorities are prioritizing safety by deciding to limit the viewer capacity around the Independence Monument (Ángel de la Independencia) to 25,000 people. Even though entry to the event area is free, strict measures such as security checks, person limitation, and the closure of the metro and Metrobús station will be implemented. Additionally, citizens are asked to keep the environment clean during celebrations, and necessary measures have been taken to distribute garbage bags to fans and ensure area order. The enthusiasm brought by such large-scale sporting events temporarily changes the dynamics of the city and puts local governments to a difficult test in terms of logistics and security.