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Final Preparations for the 2012 PBIOS
Final Preparations for the 2012 PBIOS 10/15/12
Robert Guaderrama
rguaderrama@cbs7.com
October 15, 2012
ODESSA, TEXAS - Thousands of people from all over the world are pouring into west Texas for the Permian Basin International Oil Show. But with west Texas cities already busting at the seams, the massive influx has police and the service industry putting their best foot forward to ensure the week runs smoothly.
Oil show officials say they are expecting more than 40,000 people to attend this year's show, to put that number in perspective that's more people than the population of Gaines, Andrews, Glasscock, Crane, Terrell and Brewster counties combined or enough people to fill Ratliff Stadium twice.
To handle the crowds, Odessa Police will be conducting directed patrols in the area surrounding the coliseum and officials ask drivers to be patient and allow extra time when traveling near the show grounds. If you're going to the show, it's recommended you get there early.
"Hopefully people will get to the show early, parking is always an issue," said Don Gregory, Show President.
Show organizers aren't the only ones prepping for the event.
"Hotels are full, people are staying as far as as Lubbock, the restaurants are gonna be full, if you wanna go to dinner you might wanna go real early," said Gregory.
One restaurant making preparations is right across the street from the show.
"We expect to be very busy, phones ringing off the hook with large orders," said Marcy Bush, Manager, Kieth’s Hamburger Station.
They are gearing up for the rush.
"We ordered extra food and we're stocking our kitchen with extra staff, all hands on deck," said Bush.