Richmond to Undergo $30 Million Renovation and Rebranding

By David Morgan, NASCAR Editor

Richmond had been long rumored as the next in line to undergo a capital improvement project and on Tuesday morning, International Speedway Corporation made those rumors a reality as they announced a $30 million renovation and rebranding plan for the 0.75 mile track to be in place by September 2018.

The project, which will be called “Richmond Raceway Reimagined,” follows the lead of other ISC tracks, as Daytona International Speedway finished its “Daytona Rising” project in 2016 and Phoenix Raceway’s current improvements are scheduled to be complete by November 2018.

The changes planned include a new garage area, complete with a fan viewing walkway, an inspection station overlook and new garage suites. A new media center, pedestrian tunnel, 80 new RV parking spaces, and social engagement areas are also planned.

Victory Lane will also be moved from behind pit wall to a location closer to the track’s grandstands and will include the addition of rooftop access so that fans will have an up close and personal view of the post-race celebrations.

In addition to the renovations to the infield facilities, the track will be rebranded as Richmond Raceway, dropping the “International” from its name, much like Phoenix did. The track will also have a new logo going forward, incorporating the red color from its walls and the block “RICHMOND” logo that Sam Bass helped design earlier this year.

“This is a great day for ISC and Richmond Raceway, and even more importantly for the great racing fans in the Commonwealth of Virginia,” ISC Chief Executive Officer Lesa France Kennedy said. “We are always seeking ways to provide unique fan experiences at our facilities and this project is certainly a terrific example. Richmond Raceway has an incredible history and we look forward to its bright future engaging fans in a new way with this infield redevelopment.”

“Richmond Raceway Reimagined is a commitment by ISC to the future of the sport and the iconic racing experience in Richmond,” said Richmond President Dennis Bickmeier. “The track has been a racing destination for over 70 years, and this investment will help ensure the bright future of the facility for the next 70 years.”