[h=2]Phoenix International Raceway is changing the game. $178m makeover plan[/h]
Phoenix Raceway reveals $178m makeover plan Monday, 30 January 2017
Kelly Crandall / Images courtesy of Phoenix Raceway Phoenix International Raceway is changing the game.
International Speedway Corp. and PIR announced Monday afternoon that the 1-mile oval that hosts NASCAR and IndyCar Series events would undergo a $178 million redevelopment consisting of changes to nearly everything at the facility except the racing surface.
Among the changes is an entirely redone infield that will include the garage area, a new medical center, the creation of a fan zone, relocating victory lane, and updating the media center; a new pedestrian tunnel near the current Turn 2 that will connect the infield to new seating areas (featuring in-seat Wi-Fi), as well as a redesigned Midway.
There will also be new and upgraded seating and hospitality areas near the current Turn 2 location. Additionally, a new grandstand will be built alongside the current Bobby Allison Grandstand that will feature escalators and elevators, as well as additional bathrooms and concession stands.
Phoenix will also switch from using benches in the grandstands to individual 20-inch seats with armrests. The grandstands that current sit on what is now the frontstretch will be removed. In all, the seating capacity at Phoenix will now reach 45,000.
As for the racing action, it too will change with the relocation of the start-finish line to what is currently Turn 2, ahead of the track's dog leg.
"This is a great day for ISC and Phoenix International Raceway, but more importantly, for racing fans in the state of Arizona and around the world," said Lesa France Kennedy, ISC CEO, in a press release. "It's a true pleasure to begin work on this project designed to enhance the experience of the great fans who love to watch our races in Phoenix and enjoy this beautiful area.
"Having Phoenix Raceway within our prestigious stable of venues always has been a tremendous asset and source of pride for us. We are thrilled to create a best-in-class facility in Phoenix, and we're confident it will grow the fan base here and further serve as a destination track for motorsports fans everywhere."
The renovations are scheduled to be completed in November 2018. DC Solar will be the title sponsor of the project, as well as the redesigned Midway.
For comparison, the renovations at Daytona International Speedway, titled "Daytona Rising," cost $400 million.
"When our project is completed, we will have a venue that delivers amazing fan experiences to go along with our reputation for great racing action," track president Bryan R. Sperber said. "By shifting the start/finish line to Phoenix Raceway's famed dog leg, fans will be perfectly positions to watch one of the most exciting turns in motorsports.
"We are confident The Phoenix Racing Project powered by DC Solar will put racing in Arizona in a whole new and exciting light."
Phoenix hosts two NASCAR weekends on the schedule, in March and November, while the Verizon IndyCar Series races under the lights at PIR in April.
