Southside Speedway set to reopen, bringing Friday night racing back to Chesterfield

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- After nearly five years of silence, the roar of engines and the cheers from racing fans will fill the air at Southside Speedway again.

"It was a Friday night rush," recalled former racer Eddie Johnson. "Every Friday, you’d get off work and race to the track. Now, it’s a great feeling to know they’re bringing it back."

Chesterfield County officials have announced a plan to reopen the historic track, which first opened in 1959 and closed in 2020 after the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Fans said they're excited to experience races like they used to -- and they are looking forward to the community it brings.

"It was really amazing -- the stands were full and everybody was racing," said fan Jack Boreinski of how things used to be. "It's just such a good community spot for the family and kids."

The county has secured a 20-year lease with the Economic Development Authority (EDA) to revitalize the track. Competitive Racing Investments (CRI), led by investors Lin O’Neill and Jeff Oakley, will spearhead the upgrades.

Aside from fans being excited for the return of Friday night racing, CIR investors said the track will bring more than just entertainment.

“This track has created jobs for local businesses — engine builders, car builders, decal shops and more,” O’Neill said. “It’s amazing what this little track is generating."

The track, which is about a third of a mile long, will remain at the same size.

"That's what makes the track so historic," said neighbor Euguene Harrington.

There is no official timeline on reopening yet.