(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Boone County looked quite a bit different when the Rockford Speedway held its first race, 76 years ago.
"Our neighbors were farms," co-owner David Deery said. "The spectators in the stands complained about the smell from the pig farm, when the wind blew that way."
Now, hardware superstores, mega-grocers and chain restaurants surround the Loves Park property. So, Deery and his eight siblings decided to sell, making this the final season of racing.
"It was a very difficult decision," he tells WBBM Newsradi. "But on the other hand, we're very proud of what has happened. There are not many businesses -- especially outdoor entertainment businesses, relying on the weather -- that can withstand that kind of a run."
Deery says the expansion that brought subdivisions and retail to the area around the raceway made the land more valuable, and brought higher property taxes, making it too difficult to keep the track open.
The land's been sold and will be turned into more retail establishments, but not until the end of this current season.
"A lot of race car teams and competitors have switched their plans to race Rockford for the Final Lap," Deery said. "And I know a lot of spectators have been saying 'We've got to come back to re-create those memories.’ So, it's a strong summer schedule."
One that starts Saturday afternoon, with the 46th annual Spring Classic. It continues with events every weekend through October.
The full schedule can be found at rockfordspeedway.com.
Related
Listen to our new podcast Courier Pigeon
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram