Area speedway revamps, looks to new season

Ever since 2003 the Orange County Speedway, located in Rougemont, has been on a reduced operating schedule.

Rumor had it the track was shut down.

But Vance Agee, the track's new owner, said the track kept on trucking all along and now is re-expanding its schedule.

The track always has been a true platform for Nextel Cup Series drivers, Agee said.

Many racers, such as Scott Riggs who drives for NASCAR's Valvoline team, came through the speedway.

"We have sent out 650 postcards inviting race teams to renew their track licenses," he said.

Agee bought the track from the previous owners after they sold it due to health reasons.

The track has a long history of providing all sorts of stock car racing to the Orange County area.

"It has a distinct advantage for its geographical location," Agee said. "We have brought it back to be aesthetically appealing."

The track underwent a number of housekeeping renovations. The track asphalt has been resealed and restriped.

"After cleaning the track, the practice cars are running fast on the track," Agee said.

The old wooden bleachers will be replaced with aluminum ones from Chicago's Wrigley Field, and the stands have been repainted orange and blue, the speedway's colors.

"Through contacts we cut a deal on the bleachers from the old Wrigley Field in Chicago," Agee said.

The speedway can hold up to 15,000 people. With the reopening of the speedway, many hope employment will arrive in the area along with race fans.

"We will be hiring 15 to 25 people per event," Agee said.

The reopening of the track will be a stepping stone for the economic development of the area. Agee is working with the Orange County Board of Commissioners to rezone the area for more recreational and industrial development.

The speedway might bring in more hotels, restaurants and storage facilities, Agee said. There is also a go-cart track waiting to open nearby.

But, despite high hopes, economic development might be sparse, because County Commissioner Barry Jacobs said there is no municipal water and sewage in the area.

But Jacobs, who is working with Agee for the grand opening of the speedway, remains optimistic.

"Orange County has a long tradition for stock car racing," he said. "Although it is unlikely the county will invest in infrastructure, we are helping the business achieve its objective safely."

In preparation for the opening, the front office is working to promote the speedway, which Agee said is an excellent facility.

"It's the fastest three-eighths (of a mile) short track in the United States, and still holds the record," he said.

Agee says he is excited about the speedway's reopening, slated for November.

"I'm just as excited as the drivers and race fans."

 

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