Richmond repaves and adds new stands
Richmond is getting a new surface for the first time since 1988.
Picture:RIR
Richmond International Raceway in Virginia, USA, is being repaved to allow installation of a new drainage system, as part of a multi-million dollar investment.
The work will include installing a new, sub-surface under drain system and constructing a new driver/owner recreational vehicle compound.
The track's surface is being removed and subsequently repaved in order to install the new drainage system.
The track has not been repaved since it was converted from a 0.542-mile track to a three-quarter mile D-shaped oval in 1988. Last year, a drainage system was put in place around the track's apron and outside retaining wall.
Demolition of the track's surface is nearly finished and the repaving project will be completed in approximately six weeks, allowing plenty of time for the track to cure before testing begins for next season's NASCAR fixture. The extensive project began with the removal of the track's SAFER wall barriers, which will be re-installed prior to testing.
"The repaving project will maintain all of the track's characteristics, geometry and banking, so drivers and fans can expect the same two and three wide racing they are accustomed to at 'The Action Track,'" said Richmond International Raceway president Doug Fritz.
Other developments around the circuit include the expansion and upgrading of the grandstands, with more than 1,400 seats added. This will bring the track's capacity to 107,097.
The project includes new seats in the Veranda Grandstand in turn one, development of 55 new acres of parking on the north side of the track's property and the addition of a second spectator care center outside of turn two next to the amphitheatre.
The amphitheatre, which is used for Speed Channel and QVC shows on race weekends as well as concerts and special events on non-race weekends, is being remodeled. Gravel roads are also being added to several parking lots which will help with traffic access, especially during bad weather.
Including the upcoming projects, the track has spent more than $40 million on capital improvements over the last few years.
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