Tracks: Sears Point Gets Formal Approval from Supervisors for Modernization Plan
26 April 2000
Posted By Terry
Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
SONOMA, Calif. - The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors
gave formal approval today to the proposed masterplan for Sears Point
Raceway, which will enable the facility to move forward with its $35
million Modernization Plan.The Board of Supervisors approved a new use permit and facility masterplan for the Raceway by a 5-0 margin. A preliminary vote on March 22 also received a unanimous 5-0 vote.
The final decision ends a three-year process for Raceway officials, who are looking forward to transforming Sears Point Raceway into the premier road-racing venue in the world.
Members of the Board of Supervisors outlined a series of operating conditions that will govern Sears Point's new use permit, including a comprehensive noise monitoring program and construction of a pedestrian tunnel under Highway 121. Sears Point's five major events, which include NASCAR and NHRA drag racing, will not be subject to noise monitoring.
Raceway officials requested 12 changes from the conditions recommended by the Planning Commission, and most were granted by the Board. Most notably, Sears Point was given permission to run 12 additional night races for its Legends Series, which will take place on a smaller-scale track that is part of the Modernization Plan. Also, the Board allowed Sears Point's request to use two-stroke engines for Go-Kart racing.
As part of the approval, Sears Point will set aside more than 100 acres for wetlands creation, the creation of habitat for California Red Legged Frogs and solutions for storm water runoff and siltation.
Text provided by John Cardinale
Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit The Racing Photo Museum and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.