Phases

Tri-City Dragway Inc. is dedicated to restoring this historic site to reflect its original look and feel, capturing the nostalgia and authenticity of its heyday in the 1960s and 1970s. Each phase in our renovation plan is designed to honor the dragway’s past, while making it a safe, functional space for future events and gatherings. With each step, we aim to preserve its unique heritage for the community’s enjoyment.  

Phase 1: Historic Sign Restoration 

Our journey begins with the restoration of the dragway’s historic win lights, which are emblematic of the track’s history and spirit. These signs are iconic pieces of automotive culture and will be carefully restored to their former appearance, using historically accurate colors and designs. This initial phase is essential in establishing a sense of place, welcoming visitors with a reminder of the dragway’s rich past and signaling the beginning of the broader renovation..

Phase 2: Securing the Lease with the Airport Authority  

In the winter of 2025, we aim to secure a lease from the airport authority, a crucial step that will authorize us to move forward with substantial updates to the property, particularly focusing on the historic timing tower and concession stand. This lease will officially grant us the right to renovate these structures in alignment with regulatory and community standards, setting the stage for the next steps in revitalizing the dragway.

Following the lease agreement, we will commission commercial architectural drawings to ensure that our restoration efforts capture the original design of the dragway's structures, bringing them back to their former appearance with modern safety considerations. Additionally, geographic and environmental surveys will be required to assess the property, which has been abandoned for almost 50 years. These surveys are essential to evaluate structural conditions, determine any environmental impacts, and prepare the grounds for safe and sustainable renovations. This phase will ensure a foundation of accuracy, safety, and historical integrity as we move forward with restoring the site to its former glory. 

Phase 3: Timing Tower Renovation  

With the lease secured and initial surveys completed, our next step will be restoring the iconic timing tower. The timing tower was a central feature of the dragway, overseeing race times and the overall operations of the track. Our goal is to restore it to closely resemble its original design, using historical references and photographs to ensure authenticity. Structural repairs, safety updates, and a historically accurate paint job will bring it back to life, making it both a visual landmark and a functional piece of the dragway’s future events. By preserving the timing tower’s classic style, we’ll create a centerpiece that honors the dragway’s history and enhances the property’s charm.

Phase 4: Concession Stand Renovation  

Simultaneously, we’ll focus on restoring the concession stand, which served visitors during races and events at the dragway. The renovation will include structural updates and historically accurate finishes, evoking the 1960s look and feel of the original stand. Once complete, the concession stand will offer refreshments for future events, blending functionality with a sense of nostalgia for long-time fans of the dragway. Our goal is to make it a friendly, accessible spot for all ages, whether during our annual car show or other gatherings. This renovation step is key in creating a welcoming atmosphere and reviving the charm of Tri-City Dragway.

Phase 5: Community Feedback and Decision-Making  

Once the primary structures are restored, we will invite the community to help shape the future of Tri-City Dragway. We recognize the importance of community input, especially in deciding the types of activities and events that the site will host. Through surveys, open forums, and neighborhood meetings, we will gather feedback to ensure our plans align with local interests and needs. 

If there is substantial community interest in reopening Tri-City Dragway as a functioning drag strip, this would require a large-scale effort, as well as significant community support to secure necessary zoning approvals. Transforming the track back into an operational drag strip would be a complex process involving environmental assessments, zoning requirements, and safety considerations. For this to become a reality, we would need a unified effort from the community and substantial backing to navigate these requirements. Ultimately, this collaborative approach will help us create a future for Tri-City Dragway that respects its past, reflects the community’s desires, and ensures its value as a historic landmark for generations to come.