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Supervisor Dan Lyons gave the Natural Bridge Speedway a grade of Aminus for its improved adherence to the conditions of its special exception permit during the 2023 racing season.
“It’s much improved over past years. You’ve done a great job,” Lyons told Speedway manager Tiffany Kidd during Monday’s meeting of the Board of Supervisors. “I’ll give you an A-minus. Come back next year and get an A-plus.”
Kidd was at Monday’s meeting to give the supervisors the Speedway’s annual report on the previous season, as required by the special exception permit.
“A dramatic improvement, especially [in controlling] the dust,” said County Administrator Spencer Suter.
“Thanks for all your hard work. Please keep it up,” added Supervisor David McDaniel.
The only blemishes on the Speedway’s otherwise stellar record for last year’s 31-race season were two curfew violations. Kidd explained that on both occasions “wrecks and mother nature” caused delays to races. On one of those nights, there were 20 different states represented in a big race she didn’t want to cancel.
Supervisor Leslie Ayers reminded her that going past curfew “isn’t optional,” and that there’s a one-hour grace period beyond the 11 p.m. curfew that the races can’t go beyond.
Several people, including a neighbor who has had issues with the Speedway in the past, praised how current management has improved the operations, including controlling dust and picking up trash after the races.
“The crew works all night. I appreciate all the hard work,” said neighbor Dell Moore.
Edward Hamilton said a young man he encountered at a race told him, “If the race track closes, we’re not going to have anything to do Saturday nights.”
Frances Ruley pointed to the positive economic impacts the Speedway brings to the county. Speedway patrons eat in local restaurants and stay in area lodging establishments, she noted.
The 2024 season begins with a practice session on March 16 and concludes with the American All-Star Race on Nov. 15. Thirtytwo races are scheduled.
