Glendale's State Farm Stadium, seasoned in global event hosting, is gearing up for the NCAA Final Four with bars, restaurants, and public safety officials announcing their readiness for the anticipated influx of basketball fans and the associated surge in local business activity. Gov. Katie Hobbs emphasized Arizona's track record saying, "Arizona has a well-earned reputation for successfully hosting major sporting events," in a statement obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix. Meanwhile, public safety plans have been declared solid, officials deny any present threats but maintain readiness, Jarod Brown with FBI Phoenix assured, "No. I mean, there’s always concern right? We wake up concerned. That’s the nature of our business, but at the end of the day, no. Everything we can see here, the planning has been set up, the NCAA‘s been a tremendous partner. We don’t see that there’s gonna be anything abnormal. You’re gonna come and have a great time," as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix.
Local businesses like The Spot at Arcadia are already in high gear, trying to capitalize on the event, offering specials to draw the crowds, "We are constantly pushing things to drive traffic," Scott Hibler mentioned, highlighting the significant economic impact events of this scale have on businesses in statements obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix. The downtown area is also set to play host a fan fest, a music fest, and an NCAA basketball All-Star game, adding to the local festivities and promising a notable turnout.
The city's infrastructure and the public transportation system are bracing for the increased traffic with officials urging fans to be patient and consider alternate transport means, according to a 12 News report. With an expected 80,000 fans descending on the area, the collaborative effort to ensure safety and enjoyment strikes a balance between revelry and vigilance, Jay Parry, the CEO of the Phoenix Local Organizing Committee told 12 News.
Looking beyond the Final Four, officials are betting on Glendale's hospitable climate and the commitment to upgrade their facilities to continue attracting events like the Super Bowl, with the city's mayor, Jerry Weiers, stating to FOX 10 Phoenix, "People keep seeing the success we’re having here, and how easy it is to work with the city in this group, we’ll have more events."
