WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, hone of the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey revealed their new foot bridge this week.
The new bridge linking the hospitality suites to the paddock crosses the start/finish straight of the famous Californian circuit.
Luis Alejo, Chair of the Monterey County Board of Supervisors stated:
The new bridge at Laguna Seca is a long overdue investment. “This shows a true commitment by the Board of Supervisors to properly maintain our world-renowned race track so that we continue to attract premier racing events and tourism to Monterey County and our entire region.”
Five months since the project was approved by the Monterey County Board of Supervisors, the final section of the new pedestrian / cart bridge was delicately placed after extensive preparation work. The multi-million-dollar project, which began November 2022, fell behind schedule due to the near-record rainfall, erosion and flooding. But through the continuing support of the Board of Supervisors, County staff, and Granite Construction, the project accelerated with double shifts to be ready in time to host the first two events of the season: Trans Am SpeedFest May 5-7, and the Motul Course de Monterey, powered by Hyundai N that will be broadcast live on the NBC Network May 12-14.
The track will close again May 16 to begin the full track resurfacing. The entire project will be fully completed, cured and ready for America’s premier motorcycle series, MotoAmerica Superbike SpeedFest July 7-9.
Bryan Flores, chief of parks with Public Works, Facilities & Parks for the County of Monterey said:
Only shadowed by the renowned Corkscrew and famous Andretti Hairpin, the Laguna Seca Start/Finish Bridge is a preeminent feature of the Laguna Seca Raceway. “The replacement of the aged wooden bridge will serve to provide a safe and efficient path of travel for our visitors and spectators from around the globe. Without the support by the County of Monterey Board of Supervisors, this project would never have come to fruition and for that, the world racing community is sincerely grateful.”
Jim Hovde, project manager for Granite Construction commented saying:
It has been a privilege to be a part of the significant improvements being made to the Laguna Seca track and facilities. “It was clear from the start that this was a schedule driven project and we would need to perform flawlessly in order to complete the project on time. Enter the winter of 2022/2023, and the increased challenges caused by working between seemingly endless rain events, yet we have continued to set milestones and celebrate our accomplishments one day at a time. The tireless efforts of the entire project team add to the rich history of this historic track and its legacy.”
John Narigi, president and general manager of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, stated:
“It is difficult to adequately express how thankful we are of the support from the Supervisors and County staff to persevere with this project after facing unprecedented Monterey County weather-related emergencies over the last three months. Their confidence in the Laguna Seca Recreation Area and its positive economic impact on the region’s businesses strengthens the importance this facility makes within our incredible destination.”
For more information about WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca click here.