STURGIS, S.D. – Flat track racing enthusiasts are pushing for the city of Sturgis to revisit what appears to be a plan to sell part of the fairgrounds including the historic dirt track to the Meade 46-1 School District.
KBHB News obtained a strategic plan being introduced by racing enthusiasts with AMA Pro Racing and American Flat Trackers. The strategic plan introduces a return to the type of racing that was a large part of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in its early days.
The plan seeks to revitalize the Sturgis Half Mile at the fairgrounds property and outlines a collaborative effort between American Flat Track and the city of Sturgis to transform the Sturgis Half Mile into a premier national venue for dirt track racing. The plan focuses on securing state and federal funding, engaging sponsors and expanding the venue’s capabilities to host American Flat Track National races.
Racing officials would like to start by securing an AFT National race to the half mile in 2025. That would grow to include motorcycle and even car racing at the venue by 2028.
The plan includes racing officials helping the city of Sturgis obtain funding for the proposed revitalization through federal and state grants, drawing on successful models like the North Wilksboro Speedway, which secured $18 million in ARPA funding.
The city would need funding for such a revitalization, as the budget for 2025 shows cuts in every city department due to expenses outpacing revenues.
Racing officials say they have a vision that the historic Sturgis half-mile could attract premier dirt track championships and become a nationally recognized motorsports hub, contributing to the local economy and preserving Sturgis’ rich racing heritage.
The letter of intent to sell a portion of the fairgrounds property is up for discussion at Monday night’s council meeting.
