Economic Impact of Monroe Motor Speedway

The Monroe Motor Speedway: Now open. After millions of dollars and years of waiting...its here. Even the city donated to the cause. Three-hundred thousand dollars to the track. But officials say the six figure check from taxpayers is nothing compared to the future economic stimulus the speedway could provide the area. "We could see millions and millions of dollars pouring into this community once the racetrack gets up and well established," Rod Washington, Public Relations Coordinator for Monroe said. Others say they agree. Don Plunk, a racecar driver, said, "From an economical standpoint, its unlimited what this tracks going to be able to do for the local businesses." How that can happen: The speedway employs between 50 and 60 people, who will get paid and put that money back into Monroe. Jerry Smith, the speedways general manager said, "When they get their paychecks here at the Monroe Motor Speedway, theyre going to head over to the mall and spend their money there." He continued, "First off the most important thing is the dollars that this is going to bring the city." Washington said, "Enterprises like this, they seem to attract more businesses, there could easily be more hotels along that corridor, or restaurants." Racing fans need hotels, restaurants, and gas stations; all businesses that can profit from the racetrack. Plunk said, "I really think its going to be quite a stimulus to our economy." Whether or not the Monroe Motor Speedway makes up for the 300 grand the city put in, well just have to wait and see. For now, Smith says he just wants fans to enjoy. He said, "Every child that walks through this front gate, I want to see leave with a smile." -Candace Miers, NBC 10 News. You can check out more at monroemotorspeedway.com