Daytona International Speedway has installed 2,400 linear feet of new SAFER barrier and six new crossover gates in time for this weekend’s NASCAR racing. SAFER barrier now lines the Speedway’s outside retaining wall from the entrance of Turn 3 at the backstretch to the exit of Turn 2, plus the majority of interior retaining walls. ‘After each event, we sit down and talk to NASCAR about things we need to improve on and SAFER barrier is always on that list,’ Speedway president Joie Chitwood III said. ‘We added 1,900 linear feet in 2010 as part of the track repave. ‘What we decided to do after consulting with NASCAR was install this (additional) SAFER barrier. This is Daytona and we want to make advances where we can.’ Meanwhile, the Speedway’s frontstretch crossover gates have all been converted to the new ramp-style design, which replaces the movable staircases. The track employed the new ramp design for two crossover gates during Speedweeks. The ramp allows for faster foot traffic to and from the main grandstands.’They exceeded expectations,’ Chitwood said. ‘It will really help our fan movement from the grandstands to the football field (tri-oval grass). It will enhance the property.’(Daytona Beach News-Journal)
