SHAWANO, WI – The possibility of shortening the Shawano Speedway track remains in the early planning stages as Shawano County officials continue evaluating what the project would involve.
During a meeting of the Shawano County Public Property Committee, Highway Commissioner Grant Bystol outlined the extensive work that would be required before the track could be reconfigured. He said the project would involve significant earthmoving, along with relocating between six and eight utility poles, several electrical pads, infield utilities, stop-and-go lights, and approximately 1,300 feet of existing retaining wall.
Bystol told committee members that additional engineering and planning will be necessary before the county can develop an accurate cost estimate for the project.
Supporters of the proposal say shortening the track could create additional space on the Shawano County Fairgrounds for other events and attractions. Alice Welk of the Shawano County Fair said the fair has a growing list of vendors interested in participating but lacks the available space to accommodate them.
“We have a list of probably at least 10 vendors that would absolutely love to come into the fair, but we just don’t have room anymore,” Welk said. “That would be a huge income for the fair all the way around.”
The Public Property Committee took no action on the proposal during Thursday’s meeting. County officials say discussions will continue as more engineering information and cost estimates become available.
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