SANDY — Careful planning and teamwork between multiple businesses and jurisdictions led to a relatively smooth parking situation for the first soccer game in Rio Tinto Stadium Thursday night.

Thousands of vehicles parked all across Sandy under a stunning magenta sunset, some several blocks away from the $110 million Stadium at 9400 South and State Street.

Hundreds of jersey and scarf-clad fans then walked toward the bright lights of the white skeletal arena. They were helped along by 18 off-duty police officers hired by Real and nearby Jordan Commons to park properly and cross busy State Street safely.

Dozens of other workers hired by Real also stood in the several lots around town paid by Real to allow parking.

"There was pretty good communication that came out from the team," said Scott Dunkley, a Riverton resident who brought extended family to the game. The Dunkleys parked for free at the Jordan School District properties about four blocks from the arena.

"I'm glad they built the stadium," Dunkley said. "Overall, hopefully, it will have a good impact on our community." Amparo Chavez and Nicai Chavez of Fillmore surprised their four children with game tickets Wednesday night. The family parked at Jordan High School and rode a shuttle bus to the stadium.

"They have transportation so it's fine," Amparo Chavez said, grinning. His good mood was escalated by other fans celebrating the stadium's debut.

"It's pretty nice," said Adrian Beltrian, 9, between about 10 minutes of exhilarated bouncing and giggling. "I have never been to soccer like this before."

In addition to 5,600 parking spots negotiated by Real, many fans parked in private lots for between $5 and $15. The managers of those lots were glad for the extra cash, but some were perturbed that the soccer team had not worked with them.

"I don't think it's right," said Pete Funaro, who owns a vacant lot across the street from the stadium. "I'd rather be in the stadium watching the game than managing their parking for them. I think it's their responsibility."

Both parking and traffic issues were eased by the Utah Transit Authority, which runs a light rail train near the stadium. The Utah Department of Transportation also did its part, managing traffic lights to allow pedestrian access and even installing a new signal at 9000 South to accommodate stadium-bound vehicles.

The $30,000 signal began functioning Thursday afternoon and is expected to be used during future games and other big events at Jordan Commons and the South Towne Expo Center, said UDOT Region Two deputy director Jason Davis.

The accommodation for big businesses miffed Ed Kehl, the owner of America's Auto Group on the east side of State Street.

"I'm glad they don't have parking, because I make money," said Kehl, who moved all his sale cars off his lot before the game. "But they screw the little guys. It's absolutely ridiculous. I've cooperated with them in every little way."

But Kehl conceded that the costly stadium made the property value of his land go up, and said he plans to allow parking for every future event.

For information on parking at the stadium, visit riotintostadium.com.

---

E-mail: rpalmer@desnews.com