SCOTTSDALE, AZ (AZFamily) — The Scottsdale Police Department is encouraging people attending the WM Phoenix Open this year to “Get a ride. Not a DUI!”

Officers from Scottsdale and other local agencies are teaming up to help keep attendees and everyone in the community safe.

The joint DUI task force and “saturation patrol” will be working to identify impaired drivers and stop them before they get a chance to get on the road.

Last year, the crowds were so large that organizers stopped letting people into the tournament and stopped selling alcohol, saying it was in the interest of public safety.

Police say 54 people were arrested in 2024 compared to 18 the year before. They also kicked 211 people out of the event, which was up 109 from 2023.

As a result, the Thunderbirds and tournament chair announced they would be conducting a full operational audit of how they run the tournament.

The organizers have made several changes designed to “elevate the overall fan experience” including, a second entrance, digital tickets, improved walking paths and upgraded general admission areas.

If you plan on consuming alcohol or using recreational marijuana, police ask you to make plans and have a designated driver.

For more information on the location of the rideshare, taxi, and stop-and-drop lot, visit the event’s website.

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