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Talladega Superspeedway set for $50m revamp

Talladega Superspeedway, a leading US motorsport venue in Lincoln, Alabama, has unveiled plans for a major redevelopment project that will cost approximately $50m (£38.1m €42.7m).

Details of ‘Transformation – The Talladega Superspeedway Infield Project’ were announced at a press conference by the racetrack and its parent company, International Speedway Corporation.

Talladega Superspeedway has a capacity of 78,000 and hosts a range of top-tier NASCAR events. The renovation project forms part of ISC’s long-term capital allocation plan and reinvestment into its major motorsport complexes.

The project will result in more up-close access for fans, interactive attractions and enhanced amenities for spectators, sponsors, teams and stakeholders at the venue’s infield area.

The project is scheduled to be completed by October 2019 ahead of Talladega’s fall NASCAR weekend, with work to begin after this year’s NASCAR Playoff doubleheader weekend from October 12-14. Next year also marks the venue’s 50th anniversary.

Features of the redevelopment will include a fan walkway and a 35,000-square-foot Open Air Club that will be fitted with seating, a bar and a 41-foot diagonal video screen. The garage-viewing walkway will form part of the Garage Fan Zone Experience, while a new Gatorade Victory Lane and a two-level Paddock Club will also be incorporated.

ISC chief executive Lesa France Kennedy said: “Since 1969, no other track in NASCAR has lived its brand better than Talladega Superspeedway. Big, bold and one-of-a-kind best describe this legendary facility and the larger-than-life visionary who created it, my grandfather Bill France Sr.

“Today’s announcement, Transformation – The Talladega Superspeedway Infield Project, is a world-class extension of his vision offering many new amenities and conveniences. It’s a great day for the track, ISC and the state of Alabama. This is a special place to our family and so many race fans all over the world, and its future is incredibly bright.”

The preconstruction contractor for the project is Hoar Construction, which is based in nearby Birmingham, Alabama. The DLR Group is the architect for the project.

Image: AuburnPilot