INFORMATION #2 11-17-2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Each track is designed for different types of events. For example, Famum said the high bank dirt track would attract motocross events, while the 2.8 mile road course would attract motorcycles. During the presentation big names like NASCAR and NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) were thrown around, but Farnum said this is just an idea of who the track could attract, but nothing is guaranteed. Farnum also addressed the issue of noise, saying the state-of-the-art facility will have berms around the tracks, which work as a noise barrier. In addition there will be "sound-deadening walls." However, many residents don't believe these efforts will make much of a difference. Sharon King of Big Lake said she went out on Wednesday getting a petition signed against the racetrack. King said nine out of 10 signed the petition, stating a number of different concerns; one of the main issues is noise. Her husband, Rob King, said unlike the train, which is noisy and goes by, a racetrack will be heard for days, with three to four days of racing before the actual big event. "This will be continuous noise," he said. During the presentation, Farnum pointed to transportation being one of the main reasons for Big Lake being chosen as a potential site. He said the proximity to roads such as highways 10 and 25 and Interstate 94, along with the Northstar commuter rail, puts Big Lake in a highly marketable position for the track. In terms of traffic, Farnum also pushed the importance to remember big races are held only a few weekends out of the year. "If we were talking about big races, that's one weekend a year," he said. "I think we can make it work." However, for some residents who live in the projected area, like Cary Gindele and Mary Olson, they wonder just how much congestion would be caused by a racetrack. Gindele said traffic can already be a problem in the area, let alone on race days, which Farnum said can attract up to 90,000 spectators, if not more. Olson said it's also not just the one race day, but the noise and congestion that comes with the few days of practice before. However, aside from transportation aiding in IMEDC's decision for location, Farnum also pointed to many other benefits to building a racetrack. For example, the company isn't asking for taxpayer money, and the facility can be used for way more than just racing. Farnum pointed to monster truck shows, weddings, trade shows and fund-raising events as a few of the possibilities. However, one benefit the presentation brought up that some residents didn't agree with, is an increase in property values.