MARTINSVILLE, Va. — After nearly seven decades of automotive racing without lights, historic Martinsville Speedway is finally set to flip the switch. International Speedway Corporation announced that it will commit $5 million to equip the track with LED lighting, making it the first major motorsports facility to do so.
The lights, which will begin installation following this year’s Goody’s® Fast Relief 500 on October 30 and are scheduled to be in place by January 2017, represent the largest capital investment by ISC into Martinsville to date.
“Bringing lights to Martinsville Speedway is something that has been a priority for us,” said ISC President John Saunders. “But just like Martinsville, we wanted the lights for this project to be unique. They had to be of the highest-quality for both the competitors and the fans.”
The project, dubbed “Light Up Martinsville,” will see the installation of an industry-leading LED lighting solution, which provides better illumination, greater flexibility and more efficiency than traditional metal halide lights. In addition to enhancing the fan experience at Martinsville Speedway, LED lighting will also enhance the quality of the broadcast for fans watching at home. The lighting solution will consist of multiple structures located around the perimeter of the facility and the infield of the track.
“To be able to light this track up when the sun goes down, that’s going to be something truly special,” said Martinsville Speedway President Clay Campbell. “Our fans have told us that they want lighting. We’re pleased to provide them with another amenity which will ensure Martinsville continues to be one of the premier destinations in motorsports.”
Dale Earnhardt Jr., driver of the No. 88 Chevrolet SS for Hendrick Motorsports, was at Martinsville earlier today to help unveil the project.
“As a driver, I always get excited about coming to Martinsville,” said Earnhardt. “Adding lights to the track will only add to its legacy.”
Graybar will oversee the addition of Eaton’s Ephesus Stadium 750 LED professional sports lights to Martinsville.
“We’re proud to be a part of this historic project,” said Bill Mansfield, Graybar Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “When you combine Graybar’s services along with the products from Eaton’s Ephesus lighting business, this project will create the best lighting for the best drivers and fans in the world. We can’t wait to “Light Up Martinsville.'”
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