Valley Metro Rail Connects 220,000 Riders to Final Four Weekend Events
Getting to Final Four Phoenix weekend events was a slam dunk for locals, visitors and fans. Valley Metro Rail served an estimated 68 percent more riders Friday through Sunday than compared to an average weekend.
“Serving more than 220,000 riders over the weekend for the Final Four events, and numerous local festivities, demonstrates the vibrancy that transit brings to our communities,” said Scott Smith, Valley Metro CEO. “The success of our system and its role in supporting the local economy is a reflection of our dedicated staff and their commitment to providing quality service every day of the year.”
In addition to Final Four Fan Fest and March Madness Music Festival, riders chose Valley Metro Rail to connect to the Arizona Diamondbacks home opener, Phoenix Suns game, Phoenix Pride Festival and Tempe Festival of the Arts. On Sunday, April 2, Valley Metro Rail served an estimated 131 percent more riders compared to an average Sunday.
|
Date |
Estimated Ridership |
Average Daily Ridership |
|
Friday, March 31, 2017 |
70,000 |
51,853 |
|
Saturday, April 1, 2017 |
74,000 |
45,986 |
|
Sunday, April 2, 2017 |
76,000 |
32,774 |
|
Total |
220,000 |
130,613 |
Valley Metro provides a winning combination of safe and convenient transportation during major special events and for riders 365 days a year. Valley Metro's Final Four starting lineup included more than:
- 75 rail operators and supervisors to efficiently transport riders to downtown events
- 70 light rail vehicle, platform and system maintenance technicians to keep trains running safely
- 45 fare inspectors in partnership with the Transportation Security Administration and Phoenix Police Transit Enforcement Unit and K9 teams to ensure the safety and security of riders
- 40 bus operators and supervisors to provide special event transportation support
- 42 customer service representatives to answer rider questions
- 75 Valley Metro ambassadors to greet and guide visitors and riders
