Overview

• Marcus Smith proposed roofing Bristol Motor Speedway to transform the steep-banked bowl into a year-round indoor arena capable of hosting sports and entertainment events.
• Speedway Motorsports has commissioned new engineering studies to evaluate ventilation, noise control, structural support, cost, safety challenges for the roof project.
• Smith has pointed to modern retractable-roof stadiums as evidence that Bristol’s unique design could support a dome without compromising sightlines.
• Some fans warned that enclosing the track could trap engine exhaust, diminish the venue’s open-air atmosphere and carry an estimated multi-million-dollar price tag.
• Bristol continues preparing for Tennessee’s first MLB game on August 2 as stakeholders debate the long-term impact of converting the ‘Last Great Colosseum’ into a multipurpose facility.