The City of Phoenix Considers Demolition of Historic Racetrack
Imagine a piece of history dating back to the 1940s, a racetrack nestled at the base of South Mountain, providing a platform for kids aged 5-17 to race small home-built cars. This is the story of South Mountain Speedway, a track that may soon face demolition by the City of Phoenix.
Formerly home to the Valley of the Sun Quarter Midget Association, South Mountain Speedway has been a hub for youth racing programs until the group’s lease expired in November 2023. Now, faced with the daunting task of raising $1 million for renovations to secure a new lease, the future of the track hangs in the balance.
President of the association, AJ Imperial, describes the track as more than just a racing venue; it’s a community space akin to other sports facilities in city parks. However, the city’s ultimatum has put the track’s fate in jeopardy.
Despite being earmarked for demolition multiple times over the years, South Mountain Speedway has stood the test of time. But now, the city’s Parks Board is considering either renovating the track or reverting it back to open desert.
Imperial remains hopeful of finding a solution but is yet to identify a new location for the racing program. With uncertainty looming, the future of South Mountain Speedway hangs in the balance, balancing preservation of history with the need for progress.
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