Phoenix International Raceway unveils plans for $178M racetrack updates

PHOENIX — Officials for Phoenix International Raceway unveiled Monday a $178 million plan to update the racetrack’s facilities.

“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,” Phoenix Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber said in a press release.

The bull’s share of the project will entail an entire redo of the track’s infield. The area will be transformed into a first-of-its-kind fan zone, according to the release, where people will get to interact directly with NASCAR drivers.

A pedestrian tunnel between the infield and new seating areas — complete with Wi-Fi — will be added.

The project will also move the start/finish line to Turn 2, near the track’s signature dog leg.

“Moving the start/finish line is a big change for all the racers that have been used to racing at Phoenix in the past,” Kyle Busch, driver of the No. 18 M&M’S Toyota Camry for Joe Gibbs Racing, said in the release. “I’m looking forward to seeing how those changes might affect the racing and how the end of the races play out.”

Turn 2 will become a focus area under the project. Not only will the start/finish line be relocated to it, but additional seating and hospitality areas — including new escalators, elevators, restrooms and concession areas — will also be added.

California-based DC Solar is sponsoring the modernization project and has signed on to be a multiyear sponsor of the soon-to-be-revamped midway area.

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