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IMS Projects 100,000 Motorcycle Fans at GP Race
(posted Feb 13)
The Red Bull Indianapolis GP September 14 motorcycle race will present some different logistics to accommodate the 100,000 race fans on motorcycles. According to Mel Harder of the IMS, the first hurdle is to be able to provide motorcycle race fans with stable ground to park on to prevent the motorcycles from falling over. The IMS also needs to provide bike security and a place for the fans to leave their helmets and riding gear.
Harder presented some of these new concerns that the IMS is facing at the
Feb 12 public safety meeting. The IMS is drawing riders from as far as
Alaska because of its reputation to handle races and crowds. Harder said
the fans are new to the track and their expectations are high.
The IMS plans to entertain the fans with stunt riding and a race at the
fairgrounds. He expected most of the race fans to stay downtown but he
forewarned local residents to expect a lot of bike riders on the streets.
Residents should expect motorcycles to be out on the track before 9 am.
Harder said Sunday's final 45 minute race should be completed by 4 pm.
According to Speedway Police Chief Jeff Dine, at this point, the public safety committee is
expecting an attendance of about 125,000 fans.
Tim Miller of HNTB updated the safety committee with Accelerate 465 news
to prepare routes to move traffic for IMS' three races in 2008. Rockville
Road construction should start by this spring. He said the ramps will remain
open for the races. Part of the project means removing the Rockville Road
bridge over 465. He said the 34th Street bridge is already under construction
with a completion date set for July. He said the bid was awarded last week
for 21st Street, but the contract specifically stated that work cannot
begin until 34th Street is open. Miller expects 34th Street to be open
for the All State Brickyard 400 on July 27.
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