METRO light rail in Phoenix, US Airways Center, and the Phoenix Suns professional basketball team recently introduced the “Rail Ride Event” program. This unique partnership, which continues on a pilot basis through Sept. 30, 2010, allows ticket holders for events at US Airways Center to ride METRO at no additional cost on the day of the event, beginning four hours before and continuing through the end of the transit day.

According to METRO, the program may generate up to $340,000 in revenue during the year.

US Airways Center hosts nearly 200 events each year, including the Phoenix Suns and Mercury basketball games, concerts, and family shows. All ticketed US Airways Center events are included in the Rail Ride Event program.

“This program will encourage use of the METRO system as a great way to get to and from events at US Airways Center,” said METRO Board Chairman and city of Phoenix Vice Mayor Tom Simplot. “The new riders will soon discover how convenient, efficient, and safe the system is.”

“Suns fans who used light rail to travel to games last year told us that being able to avoid traffic and parking issues, as well as the ease and convenience of the trip, resulted in an experience that enhanced their enjoyment of attending a game,” said Phoenix Suns President and Chief Executive Officer Rick Welts. “We appreciate the willingness and creativity the leadership at METRO light rail demonstrated in developing this program for all US Airways Center events.”

METRO Chief Executive Officer Rick Simonetta called the program a “perfect fit,” adding: “Special event and recreation-oriented trips are already a significant portion of our ridership, nearly 40 percent. Teaming up with the Suns and a great venue like US Airways Center just takes it to the next level.”

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