NASCAR Returns To Legendary North Carolina Racetrack But Be Prepared For Issues
For the first time in thirty years, NASCAR returns this fall to the racetrack at North Wilkesboro. The All-Star race will be held there, one of NASCAR’s most legendary venues. For years, The All-Star Race was held at larger tracks (Charlotte, FOREVER). I don’t know if you’ve ever been to N. Wilkesboro, but a. it’s not a big place, and b. there’s not a multitude of ways in and out (and the roads essentially haven’t changed). To their credit, NASCAR recognizes this whole event, although cool, is most likely going be a problem.
According to WFMY News, Speedway Motorsports, the NCDOT, and the NCSHP say they have spent months coming up with the month aggressive traffic and parking management plan in 75 years. The plan includes five key tips to make race day enjoyable for those getting to and from the track. Here’s what they recommend:
1. Purchase parking passes now
2. Download the WAZE app, it will bring you directly to your assigned parking spot
3. Carpool/arrive early
4. Plan your race day schedules and preferred travel route
5. Be patient
All of this is well and good. However, I’ve been dealing with the public on events like this for more years than I care to count. You can plan. You can lay out your plan. You can tell the public of your plan over and over again. It’s not going to help. Hardly anyone is going to pay attention and complaints are going to be numerous and loud.
My only hope is that NASCAR sticks with holding The All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro and doesn’t make it a one-off event because of a few complaints. The organization made a huge mistake turning its back on its roots and the racetracks and fans that were its backbone. The gesture of returning is a good one. And not one that needs to be taken whimsically or taken away hastily.
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