Title
2024 NCAA Men's Final Four Review
Description
This report provides an overview of the successful NCAA Men's Final Four events held in Phoenix.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION
Report
Summary
From April 5-8, 2024, the Greater Phoenix region hosted the NCAA Men’s Final Four for the second time. While State Farm Stadium in Glendale served as the venue for the semi-final and championship games, downtown Phoenix was the epicenter of fan-related activities and ancillary events. Multiple venues were activated including the Phoenix Convention Center, Margaret T. Hance Park and Heritage Square. More than 300,000 people participated in various events throughout downtown Phoenix during the week.
Safely hosting these large crowds was made possible by the efforts of partner organizations including the NCAA, Phoenix Local Organizing Committee, Visit Phoenix and Downtown Phoenix Inc. In addition, multiple City departments were involved in the planning effort leading up to Final Four. An internal Steering Committee comprised of leadership representing Aviation, City Clerk, Communications, Community and Economic Development, Fire, Parks and Recreation, Phoenix Convention Center, Planning and Development, Police, Public Transit, Public Works and Street Transportation departments worked over the past year to develop operational plans to support the events and coordinated with various other City departments as well.
Valley Metro supported Final Four week by transporting visitors and residents to and from Final Four events via light rail sponsored rides in partnership with the City of Phoenix.
A summary of the successful Final Four activities along with key outcomes will be presented to the City Council.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager John Chan and the Phoenix Convention Center Department.