Manhattan Skyline to be Backdrop for Grand Prix of America
(WEEHAWKEN, NJ - OCT. 25, 2011 - RIS) In June, 2013, Weehawken and West New York, New Jersey will be the scene of the newest Formula 1 Grand Prix race on the East Coast. The event announced today is on a street course along the Palisades overlooking the Hudson River, with a spectacular backdrop of Manhattan.
Featuring elevation changes of about 150 feet, the Herman Tilke designed course winds along the west shore of the river, over about 3.2 miles of existing roads. The last US Grand Prix was staged at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2007 after being held in several cities following a long run at Watkins Glen in upstate New York. Organizers have signed contracts for a ten-year run of races.
Attending the announcement were event director and racer Leo Hindery, Humpy Wheeler, Hudson County executive Thomas Degise, West New York mayor Felix Roque, Weehawken maor Richard Turner and New Jersey governor Chris Christie.
In making the announcement, Hindery stated: "We are excited to be bringing world class formula one racing to New Jersey. There are an amazing group of people…" who helped create the event.
"When we first race in June of 2013 - "this will be the only true green race in all of Formula One" added Hindery, thanks to the mass transit systems available. He added that: "no taxpayer dollars - no subsidies - no contribution of any sort" will go into the event and the course. The communities will receive royalty payments for hosting the events, helping with their budgets.
"This is another example of what New Jersey can do when we work together," said governor Christie. "I can assure the people from Formula One this is going to be one of the wisest decisions you've ever made."
Hudson County executive Tom Degise added that: "The GP is just a latest example of how Hudson Co is turning itself into a destination." We will do all we can do to promote a positive experience" for visitors and racers.
Humpy Wheeler, whose career as a promoter goes back to the eariest days of NASCAR, commented that: "This is the best thought-out project that I have seen since I've been in the racing business.
"I could not have conceived of a more perfect place" for the track, added Wheeler. "I've got no doubt that this is going to be one of the great marquee racing events of history. Look at your bank account and compare it to last year."
Standing in front of a garage building under construction, the mayors credited all the agencies involved, from local councils to Homeland Security with cooperating in the project.
Leo Hindery indicated that the group has a signed contract with the FIA to conduct the races for the next ten years. Plans have already been made to allow the handful of local residents who may be impacted by the event.
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John Davison
Long-time RIS staffer, beginning in the mid-80s. Charlotte, NC area local contact.