Motorsports Park making progress

Original Article
By Vanesa Brashier

Liberty Motorsports Park continues to move forward with its plans to build a 2.8 mile world-class road course in Cleveland, according to Marcus McBain, president of Liberty Motorsports Park.

McBain spoke to members of the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce at a Feb. 1 luncheon and gave updates on the progress his company has made in solidifying the deal. "We've got the seed money to build the track but we still need infrastructure. We can't ask the city and county to help because it's our project," he said. "Right now, the land development - roads and buildings - is holding us up."

As of yet, Liberty Motorsports does not have commitments from NASCAR or any other major national sporting association to have events at the park, however McBain is confident he will be able to get at least two major events a year. He also believes the facility can be used for non-spectator events, such as private customer appreciation days. If all goes as planned, the facility, during national events, could draw in about 20,000 people per day to the area, which means that other businesses, such as hotels and restaurants, will be needed in the area.

"I would also like to see the community holding festivals and events around the events we are going to run," he said. "This will be a good fund raising opportunity for everyone involved." In order to gain the interest of restaurant and hotel developers, McBain first needs an anchor tenant, such as McDonald's, Holiday Inn, or another major businesses. Once in operation, the track is expected to permanently employ around 30 people.

According to McBain, over $8 million in public financing, grants, and state participation have been identified to support the construction of the facility. The support from the city and county residents has also been a driving force in the project.

"It has been extremely energizing to talk to not only the city and county officials, but also the residents," said McBain. "They want and deserve this facility that will bring in national-level events. The help we have received from the city council, the city manager, chamber of commerce, county commission, and county judge has been incredible. I am also very excited about the last round of talks with the state and the impact this will have on the project. Equally impressive is the assistance I have received from Harry Williams and Lou Meyers of Williams Timber Company. They have shown a dedication to this project that has insured success."