With 9 World Cup matches coming to AT&T Stadium, Arlington businesses are selling parking spaces through a city permit program, and the money is already adding up.
ARLINGTON, Texas — With the World Cup headed to North Texas, some Arlington businesses are preparing for a major financial boost, not just from customers, but from parking spaces too.
“I have faith that we are going to do a lot of parking,” said Holly Abercrombie with Airways Hamburgers.
The longtime restaurant on North Collins Street is among the businesses participating in Arlington’s Entrepreneurial Parking Program, allowing approved property owners to sell parking spaces during major events, including the nine World Cup matches coming to the area this summer.
“Parking brings us a lot of revenue,” Holly Abercrombie said. “So, whether they’re buying food or not, you know, we’re still going to make some money off of it.”
City officials said the program is not new, but participation is limited to registered business owners who apply for permits through the city. Businesses can apply for the program at: https://www.arlingtontx.gov/News-Articles/2026/March/Parking-Program-Creates-Opportunities-Ahead-of-FIFA-World-Cup-2026%E2%84%A2
“Businesses around the stadium can apply for a special event parking permit to use their commercial lots to sell parking spaces,” said Cecelia Nelson with Arlington Planning and Development Services.
The city said there are several requirements businesses must follow, including lighting standards, parking attendants, and compliance with all event parking regulations.
“It is against the rules to sell a parking space without the benefit of a permit,” Cecelia Nelson said.
The list of participating properties continues to grow, including car dealerships, churches like Faith Tabernacle and other nearby businesses hoping to cash in on the expected crowds.
A similar parking permit program is also underway in Dallas through the city’s Transportation and Public Works Department.
Back in Arlington, businesses near AT&T Stadium are hoping World Cup visitors will spend more than just parking money. Especially those soccer fans visiting the United States for the first time, looking for unique experiences.
“We’re gonna be selling hamburgers, hot dogs, good old American food,” Holly Abercrombie said.
And while parking lots may fill up first, business owners are hoping their dining rooms will be packed with soccer fans too.