Now that this thread has started I will try to fill in some of the blanks.
The City of Greeley has offered the use of Island Grove Regional Park as the site for the Greeley Grand Prix. Several sites were offered as possibilitites, including running on city streets. The Island Grove was selected as the most viable.
” The original location was racing on the historic downtown Greeley streets. However the noise created in and around the area for the 3 day event, as well as logistics to retain access into downtown merchants and blocking off 8th Avenue were concerns. The FunPlex location had potential but noise to immediate housing areas and the concrete islands in the middle of the major parking lots created operational track concerns. Youth Sports Complex location was determined to have several logistics concerns as well as noise to immediate housing. K-Mart location was strong candidate due to close proximity to Mall, restaurants and Hwy 34. However, lack of public restrooms and the possible impact to K-Mart access and traffic along street in front of motels was a concern.
Island Grove is the optimum location. Noise impact is minimal, if at all. Traffic access is excellent, even if plan is to restrict access from 11th Avenue. Site has plenty of asphalt surface for track, pit area and spectator bleachers (portable units). Further, plenty of public restrooms, ability to create a festive environment for free concert stage in park area, food booths, VIP area, kart rental area, race HQ trailer, small carnival rides and parking in dirt lot to SW by Centennial Village are all benefits. Lastly, as this event grows in popularity the site can accommodate the growth, including the idea of bidding to host the Kart Expo International Expo/Trade Show to be held in the Island Grove Event Center. An effort will be made to develop a Shuttle Bus from downtown plaza location to the race, with downtown merchants sponsoring the Shuttle and offering pre and post race coupons.”
The area we will have at our disposal within the park is 4.5 acres of paved parking lot with minimal light poles to work around. The asphalt is in better shape than Steamboat but not perfect. Ther are some undulations but not bad ripples and I am sure we can design a course that minimizes the effects. Part of the area will be set aside to set up a rental kart track.
There is additional space to the east of the paved area for tow vehicle parking or pit area if needed. There are also RV hookups with water and electricity to the Noth of the rodeo arena.
I will get with Angie and get the links to the park posted so you can get an idea of the layout.
The city is looking at this as a long term deal that will take several years to realize its’ full potential. I have put them in touch with Roger Ruthart at the Rock Island Grand Prix and they are going in to this with their eyes wide open.
As to whether it is a CSC race or a stand alone event that is up to you and the CSC. I just want to see it happen. Our schedule seems just fine to me as it is with 2 races at each participating track and the SSGP.
I do think we need to make a decision very soon.
Several dates were discussed including Labor Day. That date was squashed immediately. We would be crazy to try to upstage a great event as the proven Rock Island Grand Prix. The date that was chose was Memorial Day weekend. Yes, we know that is also the date for the Indy 500 and that is a tie in. It was even suggested that we may have access to a Jumbotron type screen showing the race.
Memorial Day is only 6 months away!
It is anticipated that the first race will really be a shakedown event in order to make the subsequent years bigger and more exciting. The city is looking at a long term commitment to the race and are prepared to make a 3 to 5 year commitment.
Rusty