DES MOINES, Iowa – April 24, 2014 – A bill is on its way to Governor Branstad’s desk to sign into law to award the Knoxville Raceway up to 2-million dollars over the next 10 years in tax rebates.
Brian Stickel, Knoxville Raceway General Manager/Promoter says the 2-million dollar tax rebate will help jump start plans for a major improvement/expansion project at the track that has been in the preliminary planning stages.”We are excited about the possibilities that this bill will help grow attendance and tourism in our great state through visitors to the Knoxville Raceway.” Stickel said. “This expansion will assist in showing fans from around the world that Knoxville Raceway continues to be the leader in dirt motorsports.”
The expansion plans being considered are for a four-story building to be located on the southeast corner of the track. An entry plaza and skywalk to the existing stands, additional skyboxes, a rooftop terrace, raceway offices, and retail space are all options being considered as portions of the new structure. Early cost estimates for the project range from $6 to $8 million dollars.
“We really appreciate all of the hard work and support received from our Marion County legislators. Representative Greg Heartsill, Representative Guy Vander Linden, Senator Amy Sinclair and Senator Ken Rozenboom. The strong bipartisan support received from legislative leadership and the work of Representative Jim Lykam, Senator Bill Dotzler, Senator Randy Feenstra, Representative Scott Ourth and many other all help make success possible for the Raceway bill,” stated Marion County Fair Board President Jason Reed.
During the 2013 season, Knoxville Raceway had more than 211,000 visitors to the famous half-mile dirt track. The Knoxville Nationals and Knoxville 360 Nationals draw nearly 100,000 sprint car fans to witness the most prestigious and largest dirt track races in the world in early August. The Nationals combine racing with a cultural festival featuring parades, live music, camping, and expositions.This August 6th – 9th more than 100 drivers compete for a million-dollar purse and the esteemed title of 2014 Knoxville Nationals Champion.