Dirt Racing Complex Planned for Piedmont

By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

PIEDMONT, Oklahoma -- A dirt racing complex could be making its way to Piedmont.

It's still in its early stages but an organizer who's pushing to keep dirt racing alive is hoping Piedmont will be the new home for racers.

After a long losing battle to save the speedway in Oklahoma City, dirt racing fans may see an open road for them in the city of Piedmont.

"The reason I'm doing this is not because of money, it's not because of time, but because of the racers and fans, they deserve to be right here right now," John Banks with Dirt Racing Promotions said.

Banks says the driving factor of wanting the race track is to keep the sport closer to home.

"I think the people of central Oklahoma have been wanting this and they want to know more information about what's going on," Banks said.

Piedmont Mayor Mike Fina said growing up in a racing family; he's all for driving the venue to town.

"It'll be a great attraction, it'll be a great tourism attraction for Piedmont," said Mayor Fina. "It'll mean a lot of income for the city."

For now, city officials are still scouting for a potential home for the dirt racing complex.

"We initially identified about three sites that we think that'll be far enough from significant population and wouldn't be impacted by the negative things that race track would bring like noise and dust," Mayor Fina said.

Banks says he's optimistic in keeping dirt racing alive and it's not a matter of if, but when.

"That's another driving force that we need to provide something for those guys who their blood, sweat and tears is in central Oklahoma," Banks said.

Piedmont Mayor Mike Fina said they're working on a formal plan with city officials and the residents before they address it in city council this summer.