Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), the highest-capacity sports venue in the world, debuted a number of new features over the weekend, including 5G connectivity and a huge new Pagoda Plaza Media Wall.
Plans for the upgrades were first announced back in February, a month after Penske Corporation completed its acquisition of the IMS and the IndyCar series.
Among the other additions introduced over the weekend are five miles of new fencing, renovated and refreshed concession stands and restrooms, and an elevated Victory Circle, which is intended to highlight “the dawn of a new era” at IMS.
The upgrades were seen for the first time as IndyCar and NASCAR combined for a first-of-its-kind triple-header event at the weekend. IMS usually has capacity for 250,000 fans but the event was held without spectators due to ongoing restrictions imposed by COVID-19.
Wider lanes have been added to the main pathways at the IMS, while new pavement has been laid to enhance the fan experience upon entry to the venue. More than 30 new LED video display boards have also been fitted, including the Pagoda Plaza Media Wall that stands at 104 feet by 20 feet.
5G technology has also been added for the first time courtesy of Verizon, while a new lift has been added to elevate race winners onto the Victory Podium. Other additions include three acres of sod planted and placed throughout the venue, 75 metal-frame picnic tables in the fan plazas and 250 new racing-themed flags.
Roger Penske said: “From day one, the fan experience has been our top priority. We’ve worked at a pace befitting the world’s greatest racetrack, completing projects in every corner of our massive venue. The end result is a more convenient, entertaining and world-class trip to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.”
Fans will be able to sample the upgrades when the Indianapolis 500 is held with spectators next month.
Image: Indianapolis Motor Speedway
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