Have you ever rocked up to watch a NASCAR event but struggled to find parking? Well, you definitely would not be alone, and it wouldn’t be the first time, either. As recent as the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium in 2025, NASCAR had to figure out a parking plan to accommodate 17,000 die-hard fans entering the Coliseum as NASCAR made a return after 54 years. While NASCAR made use of both the parking lots near ‘The Madhouse,’ their return to another historic track has ignited a fresh idea.

Lime Rock Park has a rich history with NASCAR, having hosted 20 races between 1993 and 2011. After a 14-year hiatus, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series is making its grand return this June. Dicky Riegel, CEO of Lime Rock Park, underscored the significance of the event, calling it “the biggest in the venue’s history.” However, parking at the event seemed to be a pressing question, one which Vice President of Operations at Lime Rock Park, Robert Jocapino, claims to have solved!

A revolutionary idea that benefits the community

Last fall, while visiting the Big E in West Springfield, Massachusetts, Jocapino noticed a simple yet effective parking solution. “I saw cars parked on people’s lawns throughout the neighborhoods and thought, we can have that at Lime Rock Park,” Jacopino recalled. That realization set the wheels in motion. On February 27, Jacopino hosted an hour-long forum at Lime Rock Park’s infield chalet, bringing together about a dozen neighboring property owners. With the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series set to arrive on June 27 for what is being hailed as “the biggest event in Lime Rock Park’s history,” attracting between 12,000 and 15,000 fans, finding a sustainable parking solution became a top priority.

“We are looking to share the prosperity with our neighbors,” Jacopino stated. His plan was straightforward: encourage local property owners to transform their open land into private parking lots. This would not only provide additional parking but also give residents a direct way to profit from race weekends. Additionally, local businesses would also expect to flourish as fans would have to walk through the neighborhood to the racetrack, only further increasing the revenue possibilities for residents.

Rather than leaving fans to struggle with the age-old issue of finding parking, Jacopino and Tom Burke, director of track operations, introduced a structured system to streamline the process. They distributed detailed parking plans outlining space layouts, travel lanes, and entry-exit routes. By the end of the meeting, about half a dozen property owners had already expressed interest, however, some remained undecided.

The revenue model was designed to be simple and community-driven. Jacopino emphasized that all proceeds would go directly to property owners, with Lime Rock Park taking no percentage of earnings. Parking fees were set at $20 per car for locations within a half-mile of the track and $10 per car for lots farther away. To ensure ease of access, the venue also committed to providing official 2-foot by 2-foot NASCAR parking signs, along with shuttle services for more distant lots. A key concern among residents was whether they needed special permits to rent out their properties for parking. Jacopino reassured them that no such permits were required, eliminating a major bureaucratic hurdle that might have discouraged participation.

Despite the potential benefits, not all property owners were immediately convinced. Linda and Thomas Walko, longtime residents of Dugway Road, expressed hesitation about opening their 11-acre property to racegoers. While Thomas Walko, himself a Lime Rock racer, acknowledged that his land could accommodate hundreds of vehicles, he worried about people littering all over the parking lot, a very valid issue that has a simple solution but still relies on the racegoers.

To mitigate environmental concerns, Jacopino proposed strategically placing large trash cans throughout parking areas to prevent littering. Another issue raised was pet management, as some property owners were concerned about fans bringing dogs. Track officials clarified that pets would not be permitted, either at the track or inside parked vehicles, ensuring a pet-free zone for safety and cleanliness.

Security was another priority. Some residents voiced concerns about large crowds causing disturbances, but Burke reassured them that the Connecticut State Police would be present throughout the event to provide security. Additionally, Lifestar emergency medical services would be stationed at both the park and Housatonic Valley Regional High School’s athletic fields as a precaution for any mass casualty incidents.

Several local businesses and institutions have already stepped up to support the initiative. Heather Bloom Farm and Housatonic Valley Regional High School (HVRHS) have both offered their properties for parking. Jeffrey Tripp, class advisor at HVRHS, pointed out that the school’s paved lot would be ideal for fans with high-end vehicles who prefer a secure parking surface. HVRHS students have also volunteered to assist with parking management, adding a community-driven aspect to the initiative.

Ryan Cooper, a resident of Lime Rock Road, was particularly enthusiastic. His family, including his three sons, planned to park around 200 cars on their two-and-a-half-acre property. “It’s a great way to be involved with the race and help out at the same time,” Cooper said.

In anticipation of the event, the park has undergone extensive upgrades, including an extended pit lane and enhanced safety measures. Riegel emphasized that the combination of NASCAR’s passionate New England fan base and Lime Rock’s unique setting would provide a motorsports experience unlike any other. Will you be showing up at Lime Rock Park this weekend as NASCAR returns there with the Truck Series? Well, if you do, your parking has been sorted out!