Representatives from the Bristol TN/VA Chamber of Commerce, along with officials from Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway, released figures during a Wednesday news conference that highlight the racing complex’s positive economic impact on the region. According to the combined research, the direct economic impact of Bristol Motor Speedway and Bristol Dragway totaled more than $417 million for 2012 through 2014. This figure was derived from racing and ancillary activities held on-site, charitable events, contributions and tax revenue. The indirect economic impact of the venue totaled more than $1.4 billion moving through the regional economy.
For this year’s NASCAR events, [Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager for Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway] also announced that response to BMS’ August 2014 introduction of Boxes at The Edge – open-air box seats in Turn One – resulted in the construction of additional boxes during the off-season. These plush seats include inbox attendant service, a Racing Electronics headset and scanner, and access to The Edge Deck, a mixing and mingling area located just 22 feet from the wheel fence. The Edge Deck ticket is transferable and comes with a pre-race track walk pass and a $25 Levy food credit. Race fans can purchase a Box at The Edge or an add-on ticket for The Edge Deck and enjoy an up-close and personal racing experience. In addition, Caldwell elaborated on a newly expanded Park-and-Ride option for fans who attend next month’s Food City 500 race weekend. Through an arrangement with RallyBus, a crowd-powered, on-demand event travel company, fans have Park-and-Ride options in four Tri-Cities locations – Bristol, Virginia, Johnson City and Blountville, Tennessee, and a soon-to-be-named site in Kingsport, Tennessee. To reserve a space for Saturday, April 18, and/or Sunday, April 19, visit Rallybus.net/MyBristol. In addition, RallyBus will offer a reduced price of $20 per round-trip ticket. Reservations are required for all Tennessee locations.(BMS)(3-12-2015)
