Glendale, AZ - News

It’s Here!

University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. , Ariz. makes its world debut

The lights were humming. The lines were carefully drawn on the field. And thousands of Valley football fans were giddy with anticipation. That’s right—University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. , Ariz. finally opened its doors Saturday, Aug. 12, unfolding its seats and hosting the first of many bouts of bone-crunching gridiron excitement. Read on for a look at the finished state-of-the-art monument.

What the World Will See

Named one of the 10 most impressive sports facilities on the globe by Business Week Magazine in February 2006, the new University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. will show off for the cameras as the Arizona Cardinals take on Pittsburgh this Saturday (Aug. 12, 2006). The game will be broadcast locally on Channel 15, ABC, at 1:05 p.m., and fans (both at home and in the stadium’s seats) will get an up-close look at one of the most modern sporting facilities around.

Perched just east of the Loop 101 at Glendale Avenue, the 63,000-seat Stadium boasts a shining silver shell and a moveable roof and field that gives it the distinction of being the only one of its kind on this continent. Half work of architectural art and half house of pain, the Stadium was designed by world-renowned architect Peter Eisenman, and it boasts an interior prime for sports and entertainment viewing.

A retractable roof that allows the stunning Arizona night sky to dazzle above is simply just the topper on a list of amenities that includes chilling air conditioning, thousands of restroom locations, state-of-the-art video and audio technology, and a well-thought-out concession area that provides field visibility from most locations so fans won’t miss out on the action.

All Within Walking Distance

Plenty is happening just outside the stadium walls, too. Upscale shopping, restaurants and other entertainment offerings at the nearby Westgate and Zanjero developments are already on their way, many scheduled to open this fall. Crowds have already zoned in on the newly unveiled Cabela’s outdoor sporting mega store. And a drive through the sports and entertainment district reveals nearly completed shopping locales and eateries, such as Cracker Barrel, the Art House and Garduno’s Mexican Restaurant. A future mega cinemaplex also stands proudly in the stadium’s shadow. And don’t forget the state-of-the-art Jobing.com Arena—home to the Phoenix Coyotes and NHL hero Wayne Gretzky.

Heading Out to the Game?

Fans heading out to the Saturday game are encouraged to leave early to give them plenty of time to find their parking locations and take in the exciting new venue and all it has to offer. For more information about parking, tailgating and other major sporting event news in Glendale, visit www.glendalesgotgame.com.

Getting Around Glendale During the Big Game

Cardinals fans need to be aware of the suggested routes and important traffic information that will help make the game a success off the field. These routes are also useful for those driving in and around Glendale before, during and after Saturday’s game.

Going to the Game?

Season ticket holders have received parking passes from the Arizona Cardinals with specific parking and traffic instructions. Parking for single game ticket holders are assigned to park in the Brown Lot, located at the southeast corner of 91st Ave. and Orangewood. A free shuttle service will run between the Brown Lot and the stadium beginning two hours before game time. These maps of parking lots and traffic routes are available on Glendale’s new sports and information Web site - www.glendalesgotgame.com.

Other Restrictions

There are minor traffic restrictions on Camelback between 73rd and 75th avenues, on Glendale Avenue between 99th Avenue and Glen Harbor Boulevard (west of Loop 101) and at the intersection of 67th Avenue and Glendale Avenue. To safely move pedestrians in the area, 95th Avenue west of the stadium and Maryland Avenue between 93rd and 95th avenues will be closed to vehicle traffic.

More Traffic Info

The city of Glendale has partnered with ADOT to ensure a smooth traffic flow for the stadium’s opening. Visitors are encouraged to call 511 for updated traffic information.

Glendale Police will be directing traffic to establish a safe and steady traffic flow. Follow traffic signs for direction.

For complete information on all of the city’s efforts, visit www.glendalesgotgame.com