San José announces track changes
The organisers of the San José Grand Prix have announced a raft of changes aimed at addresses some of the problems experienced at the inaugural event.
While the event was judged a success - with the city welcoming top-class racing with open arms - the track itself caused a number of headaches - not least for the drivers as they were launched over tramlines.
The 2006 event will see the track surface brought flush to the curb at the rail track crossings on Almaden Blvd. and Market St. making it smoother, which will allow for more speed. The turn at the corner of Almaden Blvd. and Park Ave. will be widened, as well as the track along Park Ave. The turn at Market and Balbach Sts. will also be widened - all of which will create potential passing opportunities.
Among the changes that will directly affect the fan experience is better access around the site plus improved viewing areas for all spectators. One bridge has been widened, plus an additional bridge will be added to improve spectator flow around the circuit. Improvements have also been made to the grandstands providing better viewing of all on-track action.
“With every event you try and improve the event year after year,” said San José Grand Prix Vice President and General Manager, Bob Singleton. “The challenge with a first year event is to make the improvements, the changes, that increase the on-track and off-track experience. We have listened to both the drivers and our fans in making our changes and improvements,” he noted.
The changes were welcomed by Champ Car driver and San José native AJ Allmendinger. He said: "I believe the San José Grand Prix is taking the right steps to make the racing better. They definitely know how to put on a good show and now they are fixing the track to improve the racing, which is a positive for the fans, the teams, the drivers and the city."
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