The folks at the Circuit of the Americas released a statement today signaling the final phases of construction. I’ll be honest, they could stop right now and practically be as prepared as the Korean circuit was on their debut or the Indian circuit. Things are looking good and barring a spate of litigation, name-calling, teeth-gnashing, parking price announcements and other non-race related issues, things seem to be moving along wonderfully. No project this size every goes perfect and without a delay or myriad change orders but suffice to say, commitment is key and these Texans are fiercely committed to the tune of several hundred million dollars. Here’s the latest:
The final phases of construction are underway at the Circuit of the Americas. In the last month, substantial progress has been made in every facet of the circuit, from the limestone pit building façade to the paving of the infield roads. With 65 days remaining until race weekend, the circuit looks poised for a strong finish.
The ceiling is in place on the interior of the pit building and carpet has been laid. The stairs leading to the second level of the pit building are now complete with hand rails. Drywall has been installed and painted in the majority of both the pit and team buildings. Final installations of the interior of the race control tower are near completion. The media center’s commentary booth is nearing completion with limestone façade being applied.
Both the exterior and interior of the medical building are complete, showing off the sleek, modern architecture that will be seen throughout the other buildings at the venue. Limestone is now visible halfway up the sides of the pit building and team building. The pit building and main grandstand continue to look less and less like a construction site and more like a world-class circuit primed for its debut.
The track itself continues its tiered paving process as the third and final layer of paving, or wearing course, has begun. Crews have also paved the infield service road of the track. Paving crews continue to work around the clock to ensure that the track meets the standards of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
As each building at the Circuit nears completion, excitement for the USGP grows stronger and the days become fewer. Only five races on the Formula 1™ calendar until all eyes are on Austin.
