North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has shared his recommendations on the American Rescue Plan (ARP), the $5.7 billion federal program designed to invest in the state following the global pandemic. The plan would allocate $30 million to the state’s race tracks, divided between Rockingham Speedway and Entertainment Complex, and the Speedway Motorsports-owned Charlotte Motor Speedway and North Wilkesboro Speedway.
Another $10 million would be dedicated as “event opportunity grants” for motorsports and outdoor events, as well as another $5 million for natural and cultural tourism trails.
“We’re very pleased to see Governor Cooper’s support of motorsports and statewide tourism in his new budget,” said Speedway Motorsports President and CEO Marcus Smith in a statement, per NBC Sports. “Motorsports is a significant part of not only North Carolina’s past, but also its future to create jobs and grow tourism.“
The funds would undoubtedly provide a boost to race tracks in the state, including Rockingham Speedway and its adjacent drag strip. Track officials revealed ideas for the funds, including renovations, repaving, improved sewer connections, and potentially a new footbridge to connect The Rock with Rockingham Dragway, currently separated by US Route 1 highway.
The ARP was passed by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden, but must still be approved by the state legislature.
For more information: governor.nc.gov, therocknc.com, or speedwaymotorsports.com.