MIS renovation begins with suite demolition

BROOKLYN, Mich. -- Crews have begun demolishing the suite/media center at Michigan International Speedway.

Alro Steel's suite on the south side of structure toward the race track's Turn 1 was the first to go. Steel, glass, concrete and other materials from the 30-year-old building will be recycled.

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"It's very exciting to see a building fall, but to know that this is the beginning of eventually redesigning our entire infield and being able to touch so many different aspects of our sport -- fans, drivers, crews, media and corporate partners -- makes this project truly special," track president Roger Curtis said. "We are also directly contributing to the local economy by using Michigan-based businesses."

The razing of the suite building makes way for a solar-powered, glass and steel, two-story structure for corporate clients and media. The building is scheduled to be completed in time for the track's NASCAR weekend in June 2010.

The scope of the $17 million project includes demolition and rebuilding the Americrown kitchen, relocating the track's Sunoco fueling tanks and extending the pedestrian tunnel. The so-called "gopher hole" will extend beyond the suites from its current location in the oval-grass to behind the suites so it may be used during race time.

Crews will clear the tunnel work and demolish the buildings so driving-school dates, the Michigan State High School Athletic Association cross country meet in November and other events already scheduled at the racetrack will not be affected by the construction.