By David Madrid | The Arizona Republic
As Phoenix International Raceway prepares for the Subway Fresh Fit 500 racing weekend that begins Thursday, there are big changes afoot at the track.
A deal between Avondale and PIR will drastically change the face of the racing facility, ensure the two annual NASCAR races stay in Avondale and bring more revenue to the city, officials say.
One group, however, has criticized Avondale’s plan to contribute millions to the track’s upgrades, calling it wasteful spending.
Avondale will spend $7.2 million to connect the city’s water and sewer system to the track.
PIR officials say the connections will free up corporate money so it can complete $100 million in upgrades over the next 17 years.
The agreement with PIR will benefit the city by keeping the NASCAR races in Avondale, said Dan Davis, Avondale’s economic-development director.
A 2005 study from Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business estimates the racetrack has a $473 million economic impact on the state each year, Davis said.
The track’s impact on the city can be as much as $500,000 per race, Davis said.
The city will also benefit because construction for the upgrades will create jobs. Plus, Avondale will collect building-permit fees, construction sales taxes and development fees, he said.
A better, more modern track will also enhance the city’s reputation when PIR fans have a great experience, Davis said.
“It leaves a great impression of the community and hopefully encourages folks to come back and visit us not only during PIR events, but other times throughout the year,” Davis said.
The PIR of the future will look significantly different than it looks today.
