Speedway Redevelopment Commission breaks ground on the future Dallara plant

The Speedway Redevelopment Commission formally broke ground today on the future home of Italian automobile manufacturer Dallara. Dallara will relocate to Main Street in Speedway’s first redevelopment area, which is located within walking distant of turn one of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

“Dallara is an excellent fit for our community, as we share a mutual dedication to the racing industry, innovation and advanced technology,” said Vince Noblet, president of the SRC. “Today’s celebration truly embodies the spirit of Speedway and marks a major milestone in our town’s redevelopment vision. As the home to the greatest spectacle in racing, the Indianapolis 500, we are proud to be a part of the continued success of the motorsports industry in Indiana and the world.”

Dallara is expected to move into the new technology center on Main Street by the winter of 2011. This facility will eventually include an automotive production area, quality control and technical sections, an engineering center, an interactive area, a restaurant and a state of the art driving simulator.

On a cold Indiana day, with overcast skies and temperatures in the high 30’s, the Dallara groundbreaking couldn’t have been better a step for INDYCAR. “As this new Dallara facility positions Speedway for future growth, the cost-effective package that will be produced here will also position the series for growth, and will foster the tradition of innovation in open-wheel racing and the Town of Speedway,” said Randy Bernard, CEO, INDYCAR.

Nearly 200 people turned out for the ground breaking ceremonies at 1201 Main Street, Speedway, Indiana. Among the notables in attendance, current IZOD IndyCar drivers Graham Rahal, Ryan Hunter-Reay, and Davy Hamilton, past Indy 500 Champions Al Unser Jr and Bobby Rahal, current Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard, Indiana Lt. Governor Becky Skillman, members of the Hulman-George family, and several representatives from Dallara, including Mr. Gian Paolo Dallara.

Demolition of the former building on the sit will be completed in December and will cost approximately $100,000, funded by the SRC. Construction on the new Dallara and Indy Racing Experience Facility will begin immediately after demolition concludes.

Photos: Karen Vance