Tensions With Racetrack at Fair Meeting

Tensions erupted over the Music City Motorplex last night at a meeting designed to gather input over the best use of the fairgrounds site.

The issue of noise at the racetrack has divided residents and many, including Darhonda Day, say it’s getting worse.

“I over my 45-years living in and out of that house I have seen such a tremendous change in the amount of racing and how loud it is.”

The Motorplex did say last night that it’s made some adjustment to local races including start and finish times, as well as putting mufflers on the cars. But those rules don’t apply to out-of-town organizations or racers renting the track for races or practice.

Other residents like Tony Formosa say the race track is an important piece of Nashville’s history.

“This was Dale Earnhart’s starting grounds right here. Richard Petty raced here. Coo Coo Marlin came from here, Darrell Waltrip. I mean I could just go on and on and on. The status of this track, and I guess I should say the demographics of this racetrack have produced more professional race car drivers than any other in the United States of America.”

The Motorplex’s lease is up in December and the State Fair Board decided to commission a study of the best use of the site. Public input is part of the study process.

The Tennessee State Fair Board will be hosting another meeting tonight at the fairgrounds for all residents of Davidson County and the state wishing to voice concerns or present ideas.