Glendale basks in spending by Fiesta Bowl fans

Glendale's expecting big bucks from tonight's Fiesta Bowl game between Ohio State and Texas.

"Typically, what we've seen in the past, our economic impact studies show about a $250-million economic impact valleywide," said Glendale's Jennifer Stein.

Stein said the buzz started as soon as the teams were set.

"Calls, e-mails, inquiries from Texas and Ohio, from fans saying, 'We need information about where to go in Glendale, where to stay,'" said Stein.

Lots of fans followed up by traveling to the game, she said.

"They generate a great economic impact with the hotels and restaurants. People who travel here on average stay three to five days."

Texas, 11-1 on the season, is ranked third by The Associated Press. Ohio State, 10-2, is ranked 10th. Kickoff is 6:15 p.m. tonight at University of Phoenix Stadium.