New Kentucky Speedway Repaving – Increased Banking
Meet the new Kentucky Speedway as the track announces it is undertaking a comprehensive renovation of its racing surface which is highlighted by increased banking in Turns 1 and 2 and further improvements. Those include; drainage improvements, additional SAFER barrier, and repaving of the entire 1.5-mile tri-oval. Work has begun and will be completed in time for this year’s NASCAR tripleheader weekend in July.
Lane Construction kind of let the cat out of the bag on this announcement of the track repaving deal back in Novemeber. In a video published to Facebook, Danny James said his company has been contracted to repave Kentucky Speedway and the Atlanta Motor Speedway, both owned by Speedway Motorsports Inc.
“I’m not exactly sure why he’s talking about what we’re doing,” said Mark Simendinger back in Novemeber, Kentucky Speedway’s general manager. “If I were him, I’d be more focused on Lane Construction Corporation is up to — not what we’re up to.” Simendinger said repaving is something track officials have discussed with Lane Construction and other contractors. “Have we made up our mind with what we’re going to do? No,” Simendinger said. “We’re not going to ask Danny James to make our media announcements for us. We evaluate it every year. We’re evaluating it right now. That shouldn’t come as a surprise.”
“Modifying Turns 1 and 2 will present an exciting challenge to the drivers while addressing issues of the track surface, SAFER barrier and drainage will improve safety, which is always our  paramount concern,” said General Manager of Kentucky Speedway, Mark Simendinger.