Dale Earnhardt Jr’s $14 Million Dream NASCAR Project Sees Major Upgrades Before All-Important Event

Earlier this year reports announced that North Wilkesboro Speedway would see a new lease on life. NASCAR would also feature it in the 2023 Cup Series season. Major renovation work has begun at the North Wilkesboro Speedway and there have been several key updates regarding the iconic track.

Out of all the major changes taking place, one of the biggest updates was the renovation of the drainage systems, leveling, and structural updates to the infield. They have also lowered the infield in height in order to accommodate haulers without blocking the view for the fans. As with other things, the vintage-painted walls at the track would be preserved. They will not repaint it over, in order to keep the historic aspect of the venue alive. That includes the old sponsors painted around the track walls.

Moreover, as per Dale Earnhardt Jr‘s request, the track surface will remain unchanged for the 2023 Cup race. However, if required, they may repave the surface after the first Cup Series run in 2023. Meanwhile, they have repaired a few eroded patches on the pit road and the walls surrounding the track are currently being prepped for the installation of the SAFER barriers.

The renovation construction falls in the hands of Choate Construction Co. and they have been given a contract of $14 million. The amount comes from the funds given by the state under a special act to work on improvements towards the speedway. However, most of the total $18 million fund pool has remained untouched since 1996.

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At the end of the day, the goal is to make the place ready for racing next year up to the Cup Series’ standards, whilst also preserving the historic aspect of the track.

Several more upgrades along the way ahead of the 2023 race

The 75-year-old track has seen quite a few decades not hosting any events. Several crucial things need to be updated to today’s standards. NASCAR has scheduled the All-Star race to take place at the circuit next year. Ahead of the race, there are still a few updates that need to be completed beforehand.

The infield scoring tower needs to be renovated along with a manual lap count. As well as a top 5 scoreboard for Turns 3 and 4. Furthermore, the addition of nearly 5000 seats near turn three along with LED lights for the track is to be completed ahead of the deadline.

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The revival of the North Wilkesboro Speedway seemed like a dream for many, especially Dale Earnhardt Jr. He was one of the earliest people to have launched an initiative to bring the iconic race track back to life. The addition of the track for next year would take NASCAR back to its roots. Moreover, also give a flashback to the many fans who visited this heritage track back in the day.