Phoenix to move start/finish line to current backstretch for 2018
Phoenix International Raceway is getting a remodel again.
The track announced Monday that it would begin a $178 million “modernization” project that includes the move of grandstands and the relocation of the start/finish line.
The current frontstretch of the track will become the backstretch as the start/finish line is moved to just in front of the dog leg on the current backstretch. The track will also redo pit road and make it curved on the inside of the new turns 3 and 4.
“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. By shifting the start/finish line to Phoenix Raceway’s famed dog leg, fans will be perfectly positioned to watch one of the most exciting turns in motorsports,” Phoenix president Bryan Sperber said in a statement.
The new pit road will be directly in front of the new grandstands, which will be built in the area between the current turn 2 and the dog leg. The grandstands currently on the frontstretch will be removed.
The project will be done by the end of 2018 and also includes a new fan zone in the infield, a new pedestrian tunnel and enhanced wireless internet throughout the track.
Phoenix recently repaved the track in 2011. The pavement of the track won’t be changed in this remodel.
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Nick Bromberg is the editor of From The Marbles on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at nickbromberg@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!
