SALEM, Ind. (WDRB) — A historic southern Indiana racetrack is getting new life as it prepares to open for its new season this weekend under new ownership.
Salem Speedway has been a staple of motorsports since the 1940s, and crews have been working around the clock to get the track ready for opening day.
New owners Melissa Middleton and Brent Harmon bought the track just a few months ago and have been focused on restoring the facility while preserving its history.
"We still have a lot of stuff to do. We have been almost 24 hours a day working," Middleton said adding that crews have done a year of work in just 90 days.
Workers spent this week laying asphalt, painting and finishing electrical work in preparation for thousands of fans expected to attend races this season.
The track has a long racing history, with several well-known drivers competing there over the decades, including A.J. Foyt, Mario Andretti and Parnelli Jones.
"There is too much history here. You want to keep the history alive," said Director of Race Operations Glenn Luckett. "You live and breathe it when you walk in. It’s kind of amazing to realize who’s raced here."
This season will include traditional stock car racing along with special events like school bus races, a demolition derby and monster truck shows.
For Middleton, bringing the track back to life has been a labor of love.
"A lot of people are glad to see her old glory brought back to life," she said. "They are glad to see somebody get it and put their heart and soul into it."
The racing season at Salem Speedway begins Sunday and will run through November 8th.
Ticket are now available online.
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