ASA Plans For New Headquarters

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

June 12, 2001

PENDLETON, Ind. - For the first time in its long history, the American Speed Association is constructing a brand-new facility to serve as its headquarters. ASA was founded in 1968 by Rex Robbins and for many years operated out of his Anderson residence. In 1983, the stock car racing sanctioning body moved into Pendleton but has now outgrown its current offices.

Last week ASA officials closed on the purchase of more than nine acres on Heritage Way, west of Pendleton near the Interstate 69 and Indiana 38 interchange. The town of Pendleton is constructing a new office and industrial park at the site.

The ASA ACDelco Series is sanctioning 20 stock car races in 15 states with all events being televised live on The National Network. Outside of NASCAR, it is the second-largest sanctioning body in the United States for stock car racing.

ASA Executive Vice President Brian Robbins said site work will start within the next two weeks. He said a formal groundbreaking will take place in July.

Robbins said the building will consist of 25,000 square feet and consist of office space and allow for the storing of equipment in one location. The cost of the project has been estimated at $2.2 million.

"This is the first time we are building a headquarters," said Robbins. "It allows us to get all our people and equipment at one location.

"We looked at several sites in Anderson," he said. "When Pendleton received the land from the Department of Correction it made it a viable option for us."

Robbins said the Pendleton town leaders have always worked with the organization and that ASA wanted to remain in the area.

"Pendleton wanted ASA to maintain its headquarters here," he said. "The building should be completed in November, and we should be relocated in the building by the end of the year."

Robbins said the overall site plan still has consideration for a museum and there is ample room for future expansion.

"We're really excited," he said. "This is a huge undertaking for us and is in line with the direction the series is taking."

Robbins said no decision has been made on the building currently housing the ASA offices at 202 Main St.

"There has been some discussion about the possible expansion of a local church and the possible use for professional offices," he said.

Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit The Racing Photo Museum and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.