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File #: AM No. 25-149   
Type: Staff Report Status: Presented
File created: 9/15/2025 In control: City Council
On agenda: 10/7/2025 Final action: 10/7/2025
Title: World Cup Planning Update
Attachments: 1. Agenda Memo, 2. Attachment A: Presentation
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM: Mayor Angela Birney
DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR CONTACT(S):
Planning and Community Development
Carol Helland
425-556-2107

DEPARTMENT STAFF:
Planning and Community Development
Seraphie Allen
Deputy Director
Planning and Community Development
Philly Marsh
Economic Development Manager
Planning and Community Development
Kristen Raftis
World Cup Planning Program Manager
Executive
Kelly Schutz
Communications Manager
Parks
Zach Houvener
Deputy Director
Police
Brian Coats
Deputy Chief
Fire
Ame? Quiriconi
Deputy Chief


TITLE:
title
World Cup Planning Update


OVERVIEW STATEMENT:
recommendation
This staff report will provide an update on planning efforts in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
body

? Additional Background Information/Description of Proposal Attached


REQUESTED ACTION:

? Receive Information ? Provide Direction ? Approve


REQUEST RATIONALE:

* Relevant Plans/Policies:
o Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan
o 2024 Economic Development Strategic Plan
o 2024 Tourism Development Strategic Plan
o 2023 Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
* Required:
N/A
* Council Request:
N/A
* Other Key Facts:
Seattle was selected to host six matches from the FIFA World Cup 26, including USA's second group fixture and two knockout games. These matches take place from June 15-July 6. Hosting the event is anticipated to leverage more than $100 million in economic activity. A projected 750,000 visitors will be in the Seattle region to soak up the event atmosphere with the over 4 billion global viewers who watch the World Cup. With a new transformational transportation system, Redmond should be ready to leverage this opportunity to welcome the World and highlight the City through visitation and global broadcast.

In March, the City of Redmond welcomed Kristen Raftis as our World Cup Planning Program Manager. Kris leads the organization of cross-departmental core and sub-groups to prepare and manage the World Cup implementations in ...

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