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Idling race fans hope drag strip gets built

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BY TODD HENRICHS / Lincoln Journal Star

Sunday, May 20, 2007 - 12:16:34 am CDT

As the final Fast Street division champion at Nebraska Motorplex, Corey Petska has a trophy on the mantle of his Lincoln home.

And a ’66 Chevy Nova in pieces.

“After the track closed, I figured it was time to rebuild the thing,” said Petska, 34, an employee of State Farm Insurance in Lincoln.

Story Photo
With a '68 Chevelle Super Sport as well as a '67 Nova drag car project in his garage, Lincoln's Corey Petska says he would love to have a drag strip close to Lincoln where he could pursue his passion. (Eric Gregory)

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Racing at Heartland Park Topeka

Wondering what this drag strip stuff is all about anyway? See street legal drag racing at Kansas’ Heartland Park Topeka. (Jean Ortiz / JournalStar.com...

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Timing of decision on proposal remains unclear

A proposal for a quarter-mile drag strip near U.S. 77 between Branched Oak and Davey roads remains on hold - and it’s unclear when a final decision could come, county officials said.

Greg Sanford’s proposal originally was put on the back burner late last year after the board decided to form a task force to study the possibilities for motor sports in the county.

In March, the task force concluded its study, saying motor sports present a unique economic development opportunity for the county and the city of Lincoln.

In April and on a recommendation from the task force, the board pledged aid in the form of “appropriate government resources” to locate and develop a motor sports complex somewhere that maximizes economic benefits and minimizes drawbacks for nearby residents.

The next step is for the board to consider a text amendment. The county’s zoning code currently doesn’t address motor sports facilities specifically. The amendment is needed to even consider Sanford’s proposal.

County leaders returned to the stalled issue Thursday with plans to schedule a presentation on sound for late next month at the earliest. The board will bring back acoustics expert Dominique Chéenne, who offered his sound demonstration to the task force earlier this year.

“It’s the most important issue in this whole topic,” said Kerry Eagan, the county’s chief administrative officer.

Sanford hasn’t sat idly in the meantime. He’s been in touch with economic development officials in Jefferson, Cass and Gage counties and elsewhere, he says, toying with the notion of taking his racing prospects elsewhere.

His preference, however, remains with Lancaster County, he said.

- Jean Ortiz

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“I miss it a lot, everything about it from running the car to being around a lot of great people,” he added. “I’m working on it, and when it’s done, I will go somewhere else to run it again.”

But where?

When owner Greg Sanford shuttered the Scribner drag strip following the 2005 season, Petska and many others were left without a place to race in eastern Nebraska.

Between Kearney and Pacific Junction, Iowa — the closest tracks in the region — hobbies are on hold.

After the Scribner track closed, the 1967 Camaro of Jon Wischmann of Lincoln, with its turbocharged big-block Chevy engine, went from 177 mph to zero in a split-second.

The car sits in storage. And it’s not alone.

“Just counting guys I know, at least eight to 10 basically shut it down,” said Wischmann, 33, a machinist who raced between 12 and 15 times a year at the Scribner track.

“It wasn’t bad when it was 75 miles up and 75 back, but with gas prices the way they are now, and nothing close by, it’s not feasible for me to do it.”

Sanford, who closed the Scribner track after “outgrowing the facility,” now wants to build a drag strip in Lancaster County, where interest, he says, is burgeoning.

Since proposing the new track, Sanford says he’s heard from several people who went to work on building new cars. And once the track is built — no guarantee given the controversy surrounding his proposal — participation would snowball, he says.

“I’ve seen it happen time and time again,” Sanford said. “First, you come out on open track night, and from there, a certain percentage step up and say, ‘I want to run for some money.’

“They move to other classes, and before you know it, they feel good enough to get into an NHRA class, and their son or daughter gets involved in a junior drag class. And that’s not to mention all the fans who say if there was something closer, they would attend.”

With six circle tracks within a 90-mile radius of Lincoln already in a race for fans’ entertainment dollars, would a new drag strip make matters worse?

Sanford said the opposite is true, even going so far as to explore putting his drag strip next to Eagle Raceway or I-80 Speedway near Greenwood.

Neither venue appears feasible for a drag strip at this time, said Sanford, who remains set on Lancaster County as the best site.

Among Sanford’s biggest supporters is former Husker Kent Wells, who turned to racing a 1969 Chevelle to match the thrill of a football career. He races 15 times a year, traveling as far as Joliet, Ill.

“There’s a huge group of people from around here who go all over,” Wells said.

Their interests run the gamut from watching top fuel dragsters of the NHRA’s top series to a night of racing the family car down the track, license plates intact.

Earlier this spring, Dean Steward, a 70-year-old civil engineer from near Topeka, Kan., paid $15 to bring his 1980 Mercury Capri out for a Wednesday night event billed as “Run What You Brung” at Heartland Park Topeka.

After Steward roared down the track in his $20,000 hobby/investment, grinning buddies behind the wheels of a Dodge Durango sport-utility vehicle and a Ford F-150 pickup pulled up to the line.

The pickup won, with an average speed of 83.9 mph over a quarter of a mile.

“I started with the family car. It was a 1965 Mustang Hypo,” said Steward, who has been involved in drag racing since 1967. “Every Saturday night, we’d take the kids and go to Wichita. We always had a great time.”

Local enthusiasts say families could enjoy similar times here.

“It’s such an awesome sport,” Wells said. “It would be a great thing to have back.”

But for now, they’re revving their engines, awaiting a green light.

Reach Todd Henrichs at 473-7320 or thenrichs@journalstar.com.


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HotRod1 wrote on May 20, 2007 2:13 am:
" We can really benefit from this. The drag racing crowd is a whole additional group from the circle track fans. The drag racers can bring in more out of town and out of state racers with even as few as 3 or 5 regional events per year. Those events are as big as Americruise is to Lincoln. If the track were to go out by I-80, the racers will love it. But Lincoln won't see any benefit if the track were located over there. Anyone traveling in would rather stay in Omaha. They have a lot more other activities to do along with the racing. If Lincoln wants to see the benefits, then the County Board needs to stop setting up roadblocks to the developer and let him build the track north of Lincoln along Highway 77. "
Good Idea wrote on May 20, 2007 7:13 am:
" I don't know much about car races, but my friends and I have been planning on a trip to Pacific Junction to race our motorcycles. If I had the option, I'd rather spend my money here. "
Lars wrote on May 20, 2007 7:56 am:
" We always hear talk about economic development. This is a chance to put those words into action. The racing fans spend money, and all of the new retail stores in Lincoln can sure use the buyers. Who knows, it might even generate a few new jobs. "
It's not easy being green wrote on May 20, 2007 8:03 am:
" Why are we even seriously considering a long term expensive project which is dedicated to the burning of carbon fuels? Doesn't the irony of the juxtaposed links to this article and the the poll on gas prices strike anyone else? "
LA wrote on May 20, 2007 8:17 am:
" lars- It's possible economic development. I still wonder the real reason he closed his other location. If it was doing that great, why not improve what he had instead of locking the doors to it and starting over. Makes little sense to me. "
Uncle Jeff wrote on May 20, 2007 8:26 am:
" Very well written article on the exciting sport of Drag Racing and what it can provide to a community. Lincoln has the opportunity to bring Drag Racing to our community with an experienced track owner developer wanting to invest his own money into his own community to benefit us all. How you ask? By bringing one of the most popular, family participant, organized motorsports venues in America for enthusiasts of all ages from kids ages 8-17 in the NHRA O'Reilly Auto Parts Jr. Drag racing series, high school and sportsmans classes, all the way to the professional ranks. The proposal of this facility can bring a new source of pride of sporting events to our community along with Husker football, The Saltdogs and The Lincoln Stars. Lets make Lincoln a more exciting place to live and a destination for people to visit our city and enjoy what our community has to offer. The only thing preventing this exciting venue from happening is our Lancaster County Board and their unwillingness to work with developers and follow the timely guidelines and recommendations of their County created Motorsports Task Force. It will be our Lancaster County Board of Commissioners that will fail our community in making this happen. "
drag racer wrote on May 20, 2007 8:32 am:
" I have seen communities all over the Country with drag race tracks. It is great family orientated fun venue. The economic impact has been proven in other States. We need a track in Lancaster county. nemotorplex dot com is full of more info about this offer for our community. "
Racer wrote on May 20, 2007 8:47 am:
" I am also one of those guys who is waiting for a track to be built near Lincoln. I started racing at Nebraska Motorplex a few years ago with the car that I drove in high school. Since then, I have purchased another car and modified it for drag racing. Now, it is just sitting in the shop waiting for the day that it can race near Lincoln. I wish the board would quit putting off a decision in hopes that Greg would get discouraged and drop his proposal. "
nice wrote on May 20, 2007 9:13 am:
" open more liquor stores not only the drunk nascar fan but now the drunk nhra fan "
UNL engineering student wrote on May 20, 2007 9:30 am:
" Racing is a very highly technical sport and with its many innovations and testing by the major car manufactures over the years has helped in providing cleaner burning cars of today. Alcohol is the choice of may of the racers and is an environment friendly fuel with racing helping this engine technology development to provide a cleaner environment. Car manufactures work very closely with major races teams in NASCAR and the NHRA to continue to develop this technology. The introduction of a motorsports facility such as a Drag Racing Facility in Lincoln will provide students in the engineering department at UNL to have use of this facility for further development of cleaner burning engines and as well as other alternative fuels. The UNL department is already involved with NASCAR safer walls technology to use this information for safer roadway barriers. I have heard the developers have been in contact with the University of Nebraska on allowing the engineering department to use this facility, it is our hope the facility will be built. "
Meat wrote on May 20, 2007 9:31 am:
" What an AWESOME story and it's to be countinued for more Sundays to come! You know how they say GET-ER DONE our city goverment will be scratching there heads because they will miss out on their chance and in 3-4 years down the road when the track is built some where else and it's doing well there ALL going to be blaming us again why didn't you tell us that it was going to be this GOOD! You can take that one to the BANK! Well countiue to BUILD you cars because it will happen, The LOCATION is TBD but we will WIN!! The MEATWAGON will Rise SOON!! "
a drag wrote on May 20, 2007 10:13 am:
" I truly hope this doesn't get built. Frankly, I personnally could care less about this, but with all the arrogant, selfish attitudes posted in the past few monthsby the supporters of it, not caring about the local homeowners on Hwy 77, I'd love to see this be refused "
JB's a Chevelle girl wrote on May 20, 2007 10:15 am:
" No kidding "we're awaiting a green light!" C'mon County Board...waiting on YOU! Let's get some money flowing in this town. And for anyone who has questions about Scribner and why it closed or any kind of information on the sport; there are multiple, informative posts on the nemotorplex website. Log on and get informed. Check out www.nemotorplex.com. "
Don wrote on May 20, 2007 10:44 am:
" I'm fine with this, as long as Greg Sanford doesn't drive a Dodge Viper at the track. "
CS wrote on May 20, 2007 11:31 am:
" The homeowners on 77 didnt buy 'quiet', 'view', or 'skyline'. Their deeds promise nothing of the sort and they should have thought of that when they bought potentially valuable property on the edge of a growing capitol city. The arrogance of the homeowners is what astounds me. Property does not equal privilege.As a homeowner myself I have no control over anything outside the property lines of my yard, why should they expect to be treated differently? "
Mustang Mike wrote on May 20, 2007 1:35 pm:
" Build and we will come to race. We have several members of our local club waiting for the green light to race. It makes so much sense to build but Lincoln has their heads so far up their collective backsides that they can't see it. Americruise is a huge success here. Car hobby is thriving here, far more so than over areas. BUILD IT AND WE WILL RACE!!! "
Van Gump wrote on May 20, 2007 2:08 pm:
" Let's face it. This is great for old guys who play to their inner child and their toys, but as far as anything toward economic development on the scale we need its right down there with setting up a lemonaid stand by the Interstate. I used to be an avid dragster but I realize its all for the pure fun. "
MT wrote on May 20, 2007 2:51 pm:
" To think that the residents nearest the track would be forced to live with this situation is ludicrous. In this case property does, in fact, equal privilege. The U.S. Supreme Court has been very clear in it's decisions when balancing the rights of motor sports facilities with the rights of nearby residents. The EPA (1997) addresses motor sports noise pollution directly in attempts to limit potential problems. These individuals can build and use their track at their leisure, but if problems arise after it is built, clearly the nearby residents have legal recourse to stop it. Why not move it further away and avoid these hassles altogether? "
Grow Lincoln wrote on May 20, 2007 5:01 pm:
" The growth of the economy is made up of many projects moving forward. The race track is part of it. There are many other projects that are trying to go forward. Many of them you might consider "lemonade stands", but you put everything together and you get growth. Not everything will appeal to everybody. If you expect everything to appeal to you particularily then you will be very disappointed by life. Regarding this project, there are very large numbers of people that participate and spectate and it is a known fact that this will help the community. The biggest road blocks are caused by the county board chair and his threats to use county departments to propose rules with the intent to make the operations of the track impossible. You can look to one man as the major roadblock. Bob Workman. "
Not MT wrote on May 20, 2007 5:05 pm:
" Please be factual about things MT. The residents near the track will not be poorly impacted by any sound from the track. Sound experts and samples from other tracks show that even the nearest neighbors won't suffer hardship. Sound levels decrease with distance. The nearest home to the actual racing surface would be over 5/8 mile away! Once you get past that distance, the normal sportsman race cars will sound about the same as the highway traffic going past their houses on highway 77. "
Kermit wrote on May 20, 2007 5:10 pm:
" Tell me about being green. The gas prices are due to foreign speculators. It has nothing to do with oil being scarce. The global warming scam is also beginning to fall apart. Water vapor is the major greenhouse gas at 95%. The cars of today are so clean that if we had these conditions in 1969 there would be no EPA today. "
winner wrote on May 20, 2007 5:13 pm:
" To the fools that keep trying to win their argument by calling NASCAR or NHRA fans drunks, get a clue. You've already lost the debate when you have to stoop to desparaging comments about us. We are hardworking, professional, and family oriented people. We are going there to race, with equipment that we have a lot of money invested and are not going to risk it by drinking and driving. "
Location wrote on May 20, 2007 5:19 pm:
" Sorry MT, but this location in the county has the FEWEST people living nearby. If the zoning language is written properly, there won't be any legal recourse for the neighbors. There isn't a sound requirement in the county now, and you seem to be able to live along with the hardworking farmers and their machinery. Those harvesters and tractors are as loud as most of the racecars that would use the track. The irrigation pump motors that run through the summer don't have sound requirements. Many of them don't have mufflers. They sound just like the race cars. The facts are that this location along Highway 77 is perfect for Lincoln and Lancaster County. Most of the people that have been opposed to this are 2 or 3 miles away. They won't even be affected by the sound from the track. "
Hum wrote on May 20, 2007 5:32 pm:
" At the price of gas, I wonder what they will charge for tickets??? The more gas used the more they are going to keep raising the prices! Nothing like racing to destroy the enviornment, we're already a good head start on it. But then greed over rules, doesn't it. "
no taxes wrote on May 20, 2007 5:58 pm:
" I wonder how much tax money Sanford will want to build this? He closed the Scribner track because the county wouldn't give him any money. I would like to see Sanford and all the track supporters sign statements that they will never ask for any tax money to build, support or improve the track or access to it ever. "
Hwy 77 is the right location wrote on May 20, 2007 6:50 pm:
" It does not matter who is propossing this track. Seems many people are bad mouthing the private investor. Are they upset they do not have the funds or it was not there idea? Greg has won awards from the State of Nebraska for running a successfull drag strip in Scribner, Ne. He is the man for the job and with the support of the thousands. IT WILL SUCCEED! "
Local wrote on May 20, 2007 7:35 pm:
" To all of you that think some of us use tax dollars to pay for everything, take a look at what farmers have been receiving from the Goverment yearly. We need family entertainment. Racing is a fun family night or weekend out. We can go to the Movies in the winter and spend our $50. per show. Let us enjoy our summertime. "
Build it at I80 wrote on May 21, 2007 12:06 am:
" Build it @ I80. HotRod1 is wrong, 20 miles to Lincoln or 30 to Omaha? Lincoln will still get that illusionary revenue they are dreaming about.Two decades later and Topeka, with millions of tax dollar support, finally has someone to manage the facility. Bring Irwin up here and we might stand a chance.In the meantime take your cars over to Pacific Junction, it's not that far away. "
drag again wrote on May 21, 2007 12:07 am:
" If my tax dollars are even possibly going to support this redneck effort, then I will fight this tooth-and-nail, I PROMISE. Not on my dime at all. Put your track somewhere out of Lancaster County, we have enough to worry about now. Good ridance. "
reality wrote on May 21, 2007 2:25 am:
" Scribner wasn't closed because the county wouldn't give Sanford any money. Stop lying. Scribner was closed when he originally bought it. He kept it open for several more years for the racers, and to gain experience with the operations. His goal was always to have a track near Lincoln. It is obvious that a track near a large city will be more successful than a track in a rural county. The real story about Dodge County is that they promised for 25 years to fix up the road to the track and they never came through. They didn't deliver. It wasn't money that would go to the track, it was money to fix up the county road that hundreds of taxpayers used to go to the track. Dodge county failed on their commitments and they lost a lot of hotel business for Fremont because of it. Their loss is Lincoln's gain. "
Aint gonna happen wrote on May 21, 2007 9:01 am:
" This track won't happen. Sanford needs to convince the property owners and the county board, not the reporters at the Journal Star. He'll never accomplish that and his only goal now is to try to make everyone else look bad, when in fact there is little interest in this and it would NOT make 10 mill. Sanford PAID for that study, and any economist will tell you what you want to hear as long as you pay for it. You can't even compare Topeka with this rinky-dink strip. "
Realist. wrote on May 21, 2007 9:07 am:
" We can pretend all we want that gas is expensive for all sorts of reasons, but the reality is that our globe is NOT a petroleum factory. There are limited sources and they are shrinking. Thousands of our men and women have died in Iraq because Oil is a strategic interest and a matter of national security. The polar ice caps are melting due to green house emissions. Island nations in the Pacific are already disappearing, our cities are next. Conservative/libertarians demand the right to do with their land as they please-- highest and best usage they call it. Now people are arguing that land owners have no right to be concerned about property values, sound pollution, air pollution, and potential water pollution. We seem to want to argue any position as long as it justifies our right to do what ever we darn well please. Neighbors and future be damned. This doesn't sound like the traditional values I learned from my great grandmother and my grandfather. They say that Nero fiddled as Rome burned. We get to play with our toys why the rest of the world chokes on our extravagance. "
Cal Naughton Jr. wrote on May 21, 2007 10:53 am:
" Not all of the dragsters run off of "gasoline". Some run off of Methanol and alcohol. Most convential cars can be made to run off of Ethanol now with a few modifications. Ethanol is now getting some attention for the potential it has in motorsports. Did you know that the Indy Racing League runs on 100% ethanol? It appears as though the whiners are just whining without doing their due dilligence in regards to research. "
jo wrote on May 21, 2007 11:26 am:
" build it in greenwood. there is a circle track/motocross track there already. "
Reality check wrote on May 21, 2007 11:31 am:
" Fuel is not a problem when it comes to motorsports. Racing is a testing ground for development of bio fuels. The NHRA has electric car drag racing class now. The NHRA cars do not use gasoline. They use Nitro methane and Alcohol. Which helps Nebraska farmers. Also for those of you that live miles outside of the city and drive into town to work and get children to school are very uneconomical. The racers that live in the city live close to school and work. We use busses, bicycles, motorcycles and car pool to conserve fuel so we can race. Most sportsman cars can run all day on 5 gallons of fuel. "
Dirt jerk wrote on May 21, 2007 11:39 am:
" Drag racing and dirt do not mix. Many drag race tracks that are next to dirt ovals have problems with the track getting slippery. Drag racers do not like dirt and dust. It does not mix. Drag racing is a clean sport unique compared to all other types of motorsports. That is why it is the fastest growing of all motorsports. Nascar is maxed out and is its own deal. "
How many times? wrote on May 21, 2007 1:05 pm:
" How many times does this drag strip issue need to be brought up? And how many times does it have to made known that Greg Sanford did not FAIL at Scribner...goodness knows his name has been drug through the mud by those individual's who are too lazy or close minded to do proper research before posting their clueless statements online. Before opening your mouth do some research so you don't look like a fool. "
Amazing wrote on May 21, 2007 1:12 pm:
" Unbelievable that people are actually trying to portray racing as being environmentally friendly! The spin people will put on things to try to get their way. That's all this article is--spin. "
Cal Naughton Jr. wrote on May 21, 2007 1:45 pm:
" I did not say that the fuel alternatives are anymore "environmentally friendly" than regular gasoline, I just merely stated that not ALL of the dragsters run off of gasoline, and to conclude that the rise of gasoline prices is due to rising popularity of motorsports is asanine. You seem to have drawn your own conclusions about the plan, which is unfortunate.You're so close minded you can't even see the FACTS in front of you. It's ok though, you're entitled to your opinion, however on the same token, it is irresponsible for you to spread misinformation. "
Husker Girl wrote on May 21, 2007 1:54 pm:
" Greg Sanford closed up shop in Scribner b/c the government wouldn't pave a road out to his track. Do you really believe he won't ask for taxpayer money here in Lancaster County? Think again. Build it - fine. We see the support for it. Find a BETTER location AWAY from people's homes. I live 2 miles away from trains, and on quiet nites, I can hear their whistles as clearly as if they were 100 feet away. Really folks - be serious about the noise issue here. Saying it won't sound any louder than normal road traffic at 5/8 miles away is just ignorant. Find an industrial area for it, and insist that local taxpayers do not fund this, unless out of their own pockets, as an attendee. "
Oversees wrote on May 21, 2007 2:30 pm:
" It seems that the people opposed to the drag strip are very closed minded. They seem to be against a better economy for all of Lancaster county. They do not want to live in the city among us and some do not think they are to good to let there children go to our wonderful schools. If you do not like Nebraska go to Iraq then complain. "
SRO wrote on May 21, 2007 3:04 pm:
" Sanford didn't close up shop in Scribner because he failed...or because he wanted the county to foot the bill...he was attempting to compromise with the county for the cost to pave the road to the strip, but the country refused even though they would have benefitted... "
If anyone Is Lazy wrote on May 21, 2007 3:33 pm:
" ..it is Sanford. He's the one who, instead of doing a little research himself, bought property in an area zoned AG, not commercial. Had he done some research ahead of time, he wouldn't be in this trouble. Buying a piece of land and then trying to bully and harass his neighbors is not working for him. What goes around, comes around. "
Well Carl wrote on May 21, 2007 3:35 pm:
" Read a lil' more carefully and you'll see NO ONE stated that motorsports is the cause of high gas prices. That you can seriously say it's helping though, is a joke. Are you open minded enough to try bird watching? "
Cal Naughton Jr. wrote on May 21, 2007 4:10 pm:
" I never said that motorsports was helping the gasoline issue. I believe I said that "to conclude that the rise of gasoline prices is due to rising popularity of motorsports is asanine". I stand by that statement. Just so you know I enjoy birding, I'm very much an avid bird watcher. Again thanks for drawing your own conclusions about your typical race fan. "
Gas, Tires, Oil wrote on May 21, 2007 4:37 pm:
" This is a fantastic idea. Most of my friends and I drag almost every weekend. Finding deserted to semi deserted roadways due to there's no where legal close enough or worth the trip. If there were a strip close enough to not break the bank trailering our cars and trucks to we would jump all over it. Plus...It'd be legal and we wouldn't have to worry about setting up a run here and there to avoid getting in trouble. "
T wrote on May 21, 2007 5:00 pm:
" Sorry the homework has been done. The 2001 motorsports task force left a map of locations for motosports activities. The land was purchased because the Hwy77 was the best location that met all the criteria the NHRA requires to sanction a track to hold the money making events. Best part is the current 2006-2007 task force has listed the Hwy 77 location that Mr. Sanford owns as a possible location that is appropriate for the drag strip. I do believe someone left a comment about doing some research before commenting. Ignorance will get opposition agaist this unique opportunity for our entire community no where fast.Hwy 77 location has the least amount of residents. Sanford knew this when he purchased the land. It is recomended by the NHRA and even Lancaster Counties motorsports task force. That a drag race track be located where the least amout of people will be affected. So to be thoughtfull of all residents of Lancaster County Mr. Sanford chose the right location for a drag strip to benifit our community "
give me a break wrote on May 21, 2007 6:16 pm:
" Scribner was a great track to race at, until it was taken over by GS, and within a couple of years - KAPOOT - no more track. Are you serious in thinking that this wouldn't happen again? It closes down because he doesn't get what he wants and what are you left with? "
2001 Task Force lack of action wrote on May 21, 2007 6:49 pm:
" Quote the facts...There was no official final report, map or recomendations made by the initial task force, check the statement made by the chairperson of the committee to the County officials. Most proposed race track sites are bought on contingency, just as Cass County recently suggested to Sanford. Why all the whining about not having a track in eastern Nebraska? Lincoln racers traveled 90 miles to Scribner. Save a gallon of gas each way and go over to Pacific Junction, it's only 77 miles away. "
trust wrote on May 21, 2007 7:06 pm:
" The drag strip will bring in money. That money is still printed with the saying "In God we trust". So I pray that the family fun venue of drag racing will benifit Lancaster County, Nebraska. "
Cal Naughton Jr. wrote on May 21, 2007 9:58 pm:
" Pacific Junction has a drag strip, but it's the 1/8th mile, half the distance of what is needed. The measuring stick is the 1/4 mile. "
Jr Fan wrote on May 21, 2007 11:04 pm:
" Sounds like we need to build a mental institution not a race track on north hwy 77 with some of the comments those people that live out there have been saying. Seriously tho, with a new county jail that will cost everybody in Lancaster County over 90 million dollars, shouldnt we be looking at all ways to bring money into our County. Maybe if we had more to do for our kids these days such as racing that teaches kids technical skills, problem solving skills and family bonding, we wouldnt need a larger jail. Good Luck Mr Sanford, dont let those mudslingers get ya down, us family racers are behind you 110 percent!!! "
Giving a break wrote on May 22, 2007 2:58 am:
" The track at Scribner was closed by Corky at the end of the season before Sanford bought the track. He kept it open for the racers. Thanks, Greg. As far as racing, the racers got a better racing surface when Greg was running it than before. You could get as many runs in time trial in as you could try for in the morning. The previous years you were lucky to get 2 in the morning. Greg ran a good operation, and the fact that he is investing so much in this project already shows that this is a serious effort. "
Homework Done wrote on May 22, 2007 3:08 am:
" Sanford met with members that were on the original motor sport task force, and with the mayor's economic coordinator who was leading that task force. They showed the map they had prepared. There was property identified on that map that was up for auction. Sanford asked if there would be any problems should he buy that property for building a track. Everyone involved from the government side said that since it had been identified as one of the prime locations for a motor sport facility in the county there should be no problems. Greg Sanford followed all the rules. The government just changed them after the fact. He has had to jump through more hoops after every stage of the game. The extra hurdles are getting put up by Bob Workman. The city is for this, the vast majority of the people in the county are favorable to this project. There are only a handful of rabid opponents and Workman holding this up. One county commissioner has stated that this would have already happened except for the unlikely group of opponents that are getting the inside track from Workman. The next hurdles are being put up by the county health department. The county board is hiding behind a bureaucrat that decided to set policy on sound ordinances that never existed before, instead of the elected officials we put there. The people of Lancaster county expect the county commissioners to look out for the whole county. The vote for the track is probably 3 to 2 for APPROVAL. Workman must know this and that is why the laguage for the sound ordinance is so strict. There is NO OTHER COUNTY in the USA that would have as strict an ordinance if the current language were passed. The citizens of Lancaster county need to wake. Maybe we need to remove a couple of county board members? "
Doublecheck Your Homework wrote on May 22, 2007 8:06 am:
" The location talked about most on these comments is not the only prime location suggested in the study. ALL locations need a close look - not just your pick. "
2 to 3? wrote on May 22, 2007 8:45 am:
" Seriously, what 3 do you think will vote for this eyesore? More like 4-1 to oppose it. Bob Workman is working for the county, NOT the city like those other bureaucrats. This would not benefit the county at all--it would only drive down our property values. The only money made from this would be MAYBE Sanford, after he's taken our tax dollars to build it and then burned it down after it fails to collect the insurance money. The demand for this is just a handful of people. Look at what happened for the April 7 Midwest Racers Autograph Day--only ONE drag car showed up. ONE! "
drag tech wrote on May 22, 2007 9:20 am:
" Bob Workman works for Lancaster County. 90% of Lancaster County is Lincoln. So who is he workin for? Analysis has been done on all other possible locations from the task force map. Is the land for sale? Is there enough acres? Hwy 77 is the best location or the private investor would not have chose it. It was very considerate to check with our local government before he bought it. He also did speak with neighbors that would be directly affected not 3 miles away. "
T wrote on May 22, 2007 10:24 am:
" Well if 90% of Lancaster is Lincoln, then put it in Lincoln and stop bothering the county. I'm within 3 miles of Sanford's land and I guarantee you he spoke to NO neighbors anywhere around me. Sounds like you need to do your homework. If he had gotten permission from the government like you say, he wouldn't be in this mess. He picked the wrong location, obviously. "
Go to Pacific Junction wrote on May 22, 2007 10:38 am:
" Hey, 1/8th mile... less fuel burned, less wear and tear on your toys. There's talk he's going to expand to a 1/4 anyway. Go play over there. Why don't you guys quit bashing just Workman? If he was your only problem my math says you'd have a 4:1 vote. So there's more than him to be concerned about... "
Mike wrote on May 22, 2007 10:56 am:
" I initially wasn't for the track, but I've changed my mind. I am looking forward to the (possible) future track and taking my son to see the races! They have my support. "
Cal Naughton Jr. wrote on May 22, 2007 11:34 am:
" 1/8th mile is not adequate for National Events. At that, Mid America in Pacific Junction has been talking about building the 1/4th mile since it's inception and has yet to do so. If you knew anything about the circumstances regarding the expansion you wouldn't have brought it up. People continue to put their two cents in without knowing both sides of the argument. "
jo wrote on May 22, 2007 11:34 am:
" Dirt jerk wrote on May 21, 2007 11:39 am: "Drag racing and dirt do not mix. Many drag race tracks that are next to dirt ovals have problems with the track getting slippery. Drag racers do not like dirt and dust. It does not mix." So, what happens when the farmers are planting/harvesting/etc.? Or even when fans/spectators drive on the gravel road to the dragstrip? Dust will fly. Possibly more than produced at a dirt track. "
BC wrote on May 22, 2007 11:59 am:
" Bring the new track down here by Hickman off south Hwy 77. We get trains blowning there horns over three intersections within about a three block area. Two tracks consolidate into two so it's all day and all night. No one ever asked us it we wanted this either. I'd welcome the racers with signs in my yard.....The rest of you just don't get it. I watch birds too, but I'm not going to turn down good family entertainment. Bring it!! "
Yo "JO" wrote on May 22, 2007 12:21 pm:
" Possibly more dust is right. If you had ever watched races at I-80 speedway in Greenwood or Eagle raceway races. Dirt roads and farm equipment is nothing like a pack of cars in one general location next door to a drag strip. Also thank you for pointing out planting and harvesting goes on next to the proposed location on Hwy 77 because combines and tractors are 90-115 dba. So put sound with sound. Nebraska department of roads states that truck traffic on the Hwy is 90dba. Hwy 77 is ideal. Build it! "
BOB wrote on May 22, 2007 1:54 pm:
" How come Greg Sanford never comments in here? Seems to me this would be a good forum to set the record straight. Obviously, people on both sides are reading this, but neither side seems to have any factual information. Instead the posts are nothing more than made up statistics and name calling. "
dragmaster wrote on May 22, 2007 3:49 pm:
" 2to3 maybe you should check your info, first the dragstrip in Scribner was burned down by vandals, Mr Sanford had no ins. on the track at the time, i personally know this, that is just plain lying and slander of someones name, as a matter of fact if you ever would have taken time to look at the plan it showed the old scribner tower( old Omaha racetrack tower that was moved to scribner back in the 70's) to be moved to the current site a and observation tower at the finish line, Doesnt make sense to burn down something you dont have ins. on and plan on moving to the new location, Its a good thing you didnt put your name in so we could slander you! "
Homework half done wrote on May 22, 2007 4:38 pm:
" If Sanford met with members of the of the original motor sport task force there would be minutes to reflect that, and there are no minutes stating such. Any meeting would have been unofficial and off the record. Hardly something to base a major business decision on. Or was it just a meeting with the same person trying to push her own personal agenda on both task force sessions? The map was dated after Sanford bought the land. The 'extra hurdles' are the normal zoning process everyone has to comply with. Sorry, he's not entitled to zoning changes without public hearings. If the city is for this, put it in the city. As for the opponents, maybe they shouldn't have been told there's going to be a drag strip & there's nothing you can do about it. "
Meeting wrote on May 22, 2007 5:40 pm:
" Sanford met with the members after the previous task force was over. There are no meeting minutes. It was basically a discuss with the Mayor's economic advisor and some key civic leaders that participated on the task force. He met with them and did his best to follow their advice. The location is PERFECT for the purpose of building a racetrack. There are few homes nearby and it is on a stretch of highway that will be filling up with COMMERCIAL activity over the next several years. Lincoln will grow North and there isn't anything that can stop it. "
Triple check wrote on May 22, 2007 5:48 pm:
" The location on Highway 77 is the best location. When you analyze all of the sites identified on the Task Force map, that one location will score the highest for all reasonable measures. It is close to the city but not too close. It has the fewest nearby homes when compared to all other sites. It is along a 4 lane highway and near an Interstate exit. It is along highway land that will eventually grow into commercial uses over the coming 10 years. It has enough land to provide all the required parking and build the facility. The topography of the location is not too flat which provides that earthen berms can be constructed to help reduce sound travel. It is available for development and it has been identified by 2 task forces as a prime location for building a motor sport facility. This really is the best location. You can't wish it away. The research has been done and the conclusions can't be disputed. You can go and call names and make up "sky is falling" types of cries since that is all the opposition is really doing these days. When you analyze the situation realistically this is a good project and the best location in the county. Build the track. "
Investment wrote on May 22, 2007 6:16 pm:
" Reading about the drag strip shows me that the guy is investing his own money. It looks like the person that doesn`t want this keeps talking about taxpayer dollars. I dont`t see where he is looking for tax money. It looks to me like this will help bring in tax money with the hotel taxes that visitors pay. The county gets income from that. It is a benefit to the taxpayers "
JOE wrote on May 22, 2007 9:26 pm:
" I've checked the proposed plans and checked the location at 77 & Davey out. Sanford's plans are nothing more than a minor league attempt at what it would really take to bring in the kind of money he's boasting it will. The location doesn't have enough room for parking to hold the crowds he thinks he'll get and the only access is via a gravel road (yes it sits on a four lane highway, but you won't get access from it directly) Don't even get me started on the port-a-potties for bathrooms...Now there's a first rate facility. Build it if you want, I don't care, just don't use my tax money to do it and clean the site up after it fails...don't just burn it down. "
Sound wrote on May 22, 2007 9:35 pm:
" Just in case any one is going to leave a comment about noise which is unwanted sound. Drag race tracks run average of 60 days a year out of a 365 day year. 1 out of 6 races will be canceled due to wheather. Dr Cheenne stated to the Motocross task force. 100 dba would be 56dba at one mile on a flat hard surface. It is included in the task force final report. The dba of a bird would be 65 dba. Normal conversation is 50-75 dba. So residents at the Hwy77 location will hear something and it will not be disturbing. If anyone chose to live on AG land in an area that has no sound restrictions for peace and quite. That was not a very smart idea. Living next to a 4-lane Hwy with active farms combines, irrigation pumps, grain driers, crop dusters, tractors. This is why 90% of all drag race tracks in the country are located on AG land. Factual data hear no bull. Read the minutes. lancaster.ne.gov I would like to thank Mr. Sanford for bringing this opportunity to Lancaster County and not being afraid of selfish County board members and a few residents that moved onto AG land for lower taxes. "
Acreage owner wrote on May 22, 2007 9:36 pm:
" Triple check, reread the Dr.Cheenne's report. Berms do little to negate the low rumble of drag strip noise. Look at the task force minutes, that site did not have the highest score. You say the site is along highway land that will eventually grow into commercial uses over the coming 10 years. Mike Dekalb, who is an experienced planner, is thinking more than double that time. Speak the facts and leave the bias out. "
Unwanted sound wrote on May 23, 2007 8:22 am:
" There's a huge difference between 100-120 db drag noise at the source and a split second bird chirp at 65db or normal conversation. Can you hear either of the lower ones one block away? It takes a 1 mile distance to get the drag noise reduced to conversation level. Major difference. Residents at the Hwy77 location will hear something and it WILL be disturbing (we haven't exposed ourselves to years of hearing damage from drag racing). "If anyone chose to live on AG land in an area that has no sound restrictions for peace and quite. That was not a very smart idea." There are no sound ordinances in any county AG land. It goes without saying that it's quiet. Before you keep spouting off about irrigation pumps and grain dryers, do your homework. Those are far and few between around Lancaster County. Are you perhaps referring to irrigated farmland outstate? "
The score wrote on May 23, 2007 9:48 am:
" The task force numbers showing the different sites didn't score them for suitability, only the number of times they were mentioned. There was no analysis done by the planning "expert" Dekalb. He just wanted to take the simple road. The best site is the North 77 location when you take all the factors into consideration. Dekalb even as much admitted this on several occasions. "
Bias wrote on May 23, 2007 9:50 am:
" It is sad that so much bias has been exhibited by Mike Dekalb. He was acting purposely to steer the location to other sites. It was obvious in watching the proceedings at the task force meetings that he knew the location on Highway 77 was ideal. It makes one wonder who instructed him to steer it away from the best location? "
Sound wrote on May 23, 2007 9:55 am:
" The sound levels from the racing are made up from several frequencies. The fact is that berms and sound walls do reduce sound levels. You can see for yourself by going to take samples along any highway or railroad line that has sound walls or hills along side. Dr. Cheene's report was very general. What you miss in your very limited twisting of the facts is that the overall decibel reading will be reduced by berms. Some lower frequencies may be less affected, but it was also noted that the lower frequencies really don't do much to disturb people and are not percieved as readily as the mid and high range sounds. Lower frequencies can "flow" around objects a little, but higher frequencies tend to flow straight and can't "turn the corner" so to speak. That is why barriers can be effective. "
Hurdles wrote on May 23, 2007 10:00 am:
" The extra measures that the county and the planning commission have thrown at this project are not business as usual. Everyone knows doing business in Lincoln is a major pain in the rear, but they have really pulled out the stops. The actions taken have not been the normal procedures. That goes back to before this was even about a race track. When Sanford asked for a soil mining permit they denied it even though no one could remember the last time they had denied one. The funny thing is he was just trying to make some income from the property at that time. He probably would have put the track elsewhere but they decided to pick a fight. For one, I'm glad Greg decided to call their bluff and go ahead with the track application here. It is ideal for Lincoln and we can all benefit. "
Ag Land? wrote on May 23, 2007 10:02 am:
" Would you please stop crying about ag land. EVERYTHING IN THIS STATE IS BUILT ON AG LAND!!!! Get over it. And as far as professionals in the planning department, they have no imagination for the growth of the city and probably have problems planning what to have for lunch. "
Workman for the County wrote on May 23, 2007 10:05 am:
" You are right in that Workman is working on behalf of rural county residents. Specifically he is doing his best to keep the city from growing north of I-80. He has met directly with anti-growth groups such as CPRLIFE. It is also correct that he gets elected by the whole county. It is time that the 90% of the people in the county that Workman is working against decide to remove him. Time to RECALL BOB WORKMAN. "
Unwanted Lies wrote on May 23, 2007 10:10 am:
" I love how people think they can just make up their own physics and lie about it. Here are some simple facts that you can prove yourself with a decibel meter from Radio Shack. Conversation sound levels are around 55 to 65 db, and some times higher, when you hold a meter in your hands. The sound from regular sportsman drag cars drops from 95db-110db range at 50 feet down to that conversation level in about 1/2 to 5/8 mile. Go see for yourself. "
I vote for Bob Anyday wrote on May 23, 2007 10:40 am:
" I for one am proud of Bob Workman for standing up to the bully Sanford who moved into our established area and is trying to put his fly by night business here, waiving his millions around. We're not so easily bullied, Mr. Sanford. We are grateful for people like Workman who are RESIDENTS here and willing to stand up for the people of the COUNTY. Bob, we appreciate you and all your efforts! And...if Workman were your only problem with putting up this track, trust me, it would already be built! "
RECALL wrote on May 23, 2007 10:43 am:
" I see The Lancaster board of Commissioners spending our tax dollars, applying for bonds and grants. What have they done to bring in economic development projects besides give Lincoln chamber of commerce over $800,000 a year to say we are a great county to live in. Real estate is no good without jobs and entertainment venues. So a recall may be a great option for the future of all Lancaster county. This is a much bigger deal and goes futher back than the two commissioners that are being recalled in Cass county. Let me sign. "
Davey Resident wrote on May 23, 2007 12:28 pm:
" I live in Davey and know the business support that is here and the support of many who live in this village who believe how the track will benefit our community. I had heard as well our District 5 County Commissioner has had discussions with the CPRLIFE group that represent people that are against growth, business opportunites that create jobs, and the well being for our city and county. Our town of Davey is struggling and could use some additional businesses and revenue a Motorsports facility would bring to our area. If a County Commissioner is not representing a district which includes the town of Davey, maybe it is time for a new direction and take the measures necessary to bring in new leadership that will represent our district and the Davey community. "
Another Davey Resident wrote on May 23, 2007 12:53 pm:
" The reason most of us live here is that we like the like small town living. We have what, maybe one business in Davey that would benefit from the track (maybe the Davey Tavern?) Other than that, no other Davey business would benefit. If Lincoln wants it, Lincoln take it. For that matter, if Cass and these other counties are so eager for Sanford's drag strip, why don't they sign on the dotted line? Hmmmmm. "
embarassed wrote on May 23, 2007 1:37 pm:
" I admit to following this discussion. However isn't it sad that we can put this much time and energy into an insignificant discussion like this when substantial issues like education, public health, human services, city government etc. get ignored. I guess we know what our priorities are. Why do we even pretend otherwise. Let's pave over the entire county, gather our children and watch the money to drop from heaven. "
True Davey Resident wrote on May 23, 2007 2:10 pm:
" The Drag Race Facility will benefit our village of Davey in many ways. We have several businesses that will have a positive business impact. A propane supply business that would supply gases to be used by the facility. A just built machine shop services building on main street which will benefit with more race engine rebuilds. A general repair shop that is a Linweld supplier of gas for automotive uses. The Davey Tavern. A performance and automotive repair shop just outside of Davey that performs Dyno and high performance service. Our Davey Post Office that the race track will provide postal service for the race track. Postal officials have been looking at closing the Post Office and going to cluster or postal boxes which means no more walk in Postal Service. The increase of postal business including mailings by a Motorsports facility would increase the business through the post office to help keep it open for our community, this is very important to me as a resident. The new community center can host racer banquets just as the Scribner community center hosted these events. More people will become aware of this brand new community center for other events and when attending a recent Village of Davey Board meeting, the center needs more events to maintain the operating expenses. An excavating company and many other surrounding businesses will benefit as well. Again, I am proud of the our village of Davey and would definitely see the advantages of bringing new businesses and opportunities to our community which includes a Motorsports Facility. "
Get real Davey supporter wrote on May 23, 2007 11:21 pm:
" A performance and automotive repair shop just outside of Davey that performs Dyno and high performance service....hmmm, outside of Davey? As far as the postal service, I'm sure Sanford will have materials printed in Lincoln and put the delivery in slow motion by driving them out to Davey instead of using the Lincoln Post Offices. Get real.The community center would be used for an annual banquet at best. Realistically, the bar is the one business that would benefit the most. "
too dangerous wrote on May 24, 2007 7:37 am:
" Lincoln will never allow this because its noisy and to dangerous. Imagine that "
Another Davey supporter wrote on May 24, 2007 2:30 pm:
" See the people against the track don't have a clue. They can't even believe things that are fact. Just because you don't know about everything in your area doesn't make them not true. I think that you are so wrapped up in your own little world that you have no idea what goes on around you. Oh and I do go to the bar in Davey but guess what I don't drink a lick nothing never. But I like to help my town out. I have had work done at the shop in Davey. I get my hair cut in Davey. I get my propane and alot of my gas for my cars in Davey. I buy my stamps and postal needs from the Davey PO. I also buy my fireworks on the forth of July in DAVEY. I LOVE MY COMMUNITY. I ALSO HOPE THAT THE TRACK GOES IN. "

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