More Upgrades For an Icon

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is taking another major step in a makeover of the World’s Greatest Race Course. IMS officials have unveiled the next phase of the “Project 100” initiative, which includes $30 million in improvements to the iconic structure, slated to be complete in time for the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 in 2016. The project includes entryway enhancements along 16th Street, a dramatic new plaza at Gate 1 as well as more and upgraded seating. “Everything being done is designed to make the race track and the venue better,” says IMS President Doug Boles. “It's going to still feel like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but it's going to be nicer and cleaner and the amenities are going to be better.”

Perhaps the biggest change will be in the upper grandstands along the main straightaway and first turn. Plans call for new stadium seating, WIFI access and a new roofline to allow for vastly improved views of the track.

While the improvements are designed to enhance the racing experience for fans at IMS, Boles tells Inside Indiana Business the changes could also play a role in future non-racing events like concerts.

Project 100 is a public-private partnership, funded in-part by up to $100 million in loans approved by the Indiana General Assembly in 2013. IMS is pledging up to $2 million annually toward the project.

The legislation also created a Motorsports Investment District for IMS.

As part of the initiative, the Speedway has already completed projects that include multiple new high definition video boards, a new digital scoring pylon and improvements to the IMS road course that allowed for the addition of the Indianapolis Grand Prix, which now kicks off the Month of May.

Boles says construction will begin after the Moto GP in August and be complete by next May.

Source: Inside INdiana Business