Surrounded by a large crowd of supporters, Suffolk County legislators in Hauppauge yesterday announced the formation of an ad hoc committee to explore the possibility of building a drag strip in Suffolk.
Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory announced the new committee, a move prompted by a request from Legislator Tom Cilmi after racing enthusiasts conveyed a desire for a family-oriented motor sports park.
The committee will investigate potential locations in Suffolk for a drag strip, the economic benefits the project could bring, and the impact it would have on combating illegal drag racing and threats to public safety, according to a press release issued by Gregory’s office. Committee members will include motor sports advocates, a county representative from the planning department, a representative from the Suffolk County Supervisors’ Association, and a bipartisan group of legislators: Gregory, Cilmi, and legislators Al Krupski and Rob Trotta.
“Long Island has thousands of families who are passionate about racing as a sport, and providing a legal outlet for drag racing could bring tremendous economic benefits to Suffolk County,” Gregory said. “Long Island is losing money in sales tax as residents and tourists flock to nearby states, including New Jersey, to use their drag racing strips. Estimates indicate a drag strip could generate more than $100 million in revenue as well as spur job creation in high-tech industries that build cars and support racing. Additionally, illegal drag racing is a public safety issue, and providing a safe place to participate in motor sports will keep street racers off of public roads.”
More than 100 members of the Long Island Needs a Drag Strip advocacy group stood alongside legislators at the press conference to express their support and gratitude.
“It’s great news that Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory and the legislature are taking a serious look at the possibility of creating a drag racing strip in Suffolk County,” said John Cozzali, of Mastic, founder of Long Island Needs a Drag Strip. “My fellow racers and I are so happy to see this big step take effect. We look forward to working on this initiative, which we believe will have a positive economic impact for Long Island and will create a safe place for the new generation to come and race.”
“Racing is probably the largest spectator sport in the United States. The crowd that stood behind us today is indicative of the popularity of the sport right here in Suffolk County,” said Cilmi, who represents the 10th District. “We are thrilled to embark on this effort to find an appropriate location for a racing park here in Suffolk County. In so doing we will help generate millions of dollars for our local economy, support small businesses, and provide a venue for a wholesome family-oriented recreational activity for everyone to enjoy for years to come.”
Krupski said he will work with the committee to explore locating a drag strip “in an appropriate location in Suffolk County.”
Motorsports enthusiasts have long lobbied for a drag strip at the former Grumman site in Calverton. They have pushed for it during meetings of the Riverhead Town Board, which adopted new zoning for the undeveloped acreage at the Calverton Enterprise Park that does not specifically provide for motor sports, as the previous zoning did.
Riverhead Supervisor Sean Walter said last year the Calverton Enterprise Park is off the table, though he agrees the island needs a drag strip.
The State Department of Environmental Conservation has advised the town it does not want to see a drag strip there, Walter said. “And the Gold Star Mothers came out in force against it in 2010.” The group objected to noise they said would disturb mourners during services at nearby Calverton National Cemetery.
In August, the L.I. Needs a Dragstrip group held a rally that drew more than 500 people at Riverhead Raceway. Rep. Lee Zeldin attended the rally and pledged his “1,000-percent” support for a track. The congressman urged drag racing enthusiasts to lobby their local elected officials.
“That’s the message. Tell every elected official who is out there, wherever you are on Long Island, you need to listen up. This group may be several hundred strong here but it is several thousand strong all across Long Island and they will come to your door to tell you …We want a drag strip on Long Island… Long Island needs a drag strip,” Zeldin said, drawing applause and cheers from the crowd gathered around him.
The island was once home to three drag strips: National Speedway in Center Moriches, Islip Speedway and LI Dragway in Westhampton, which was the last operating drag strip, and closed in 2004. Now the nearest drag strips are in New Jersey.
“Based upon the number of people who showed up here today, there is clearly a demand,” Trotta said yesterday. “This county needs revenue, and if we can put a drag strip in and attract people from all over the country to come here and spend money, it’s a great thing. The problem is, we have limited space, but we are going to do our best to find a place and figure out a way to make this happen.”
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