The Firestone Grand Prix kicked off Friday, marking the 14th year the race has been held in St Pete and while some used to dread it, mainly because of the traffic, the noise and the massive amount of people.
Now there’s a change in the atmosphere. The city is now welcoming it with open arms, and it’s also being considered a defining moment for the city of St. Pete -- one of Indy Car’s crown jewels.
St. Pete Mayor Rick Kriseman says it’s the event grows every year.
“No question it’s gotten better every year. This year the suites and the boat slips sold out. The best thing is, this community is so jazzed for this race. People and businesses are excited.”
Kriseman says the Firestone Grand Prix is a huge economic boon for the area.
“According to estimates a couple years ago, the event brought in more than $50 million. It’s gotten bigger since then, so the impact on the city is tremendous”
Eric Jacky and his family came to St. Pete for the weekend from Orlando. “For us, it’s a yearly event. We bring the kids to see the race cars. I just sent a text to my wife saying we really need to live here.”
Tim and Lina Ruskell live in the area, “We think the races coming to St. Pete is fantastic,” Tim said. “It highlights this great city, the beach and the water, and all the activities around here.”
Race co-owner Kevin Savoree says you don’t have to be racing fan to take part in the weekend festivities.
“What we try to do is create a family fun environment. Whether it's rock wall climbing, a mechanical alligator, a slide, or the great food or the races, there is something for everyone,” he said.
Marketing and communications manager Steve Bidlack says it taken event organizers a year to prepare. “The preparations begin once the race ends. To build the track itself, it's about 28 days. It takes about two weeks to tear it down.”
The Indy cars will drive about 180 mph through the 1.8-mile, 14-turn course.
Bidlack says St. Pete is a perfect location to kick off the Verizon Indy Car series.
“St. Pete is often the Monaco of America. It’s beautiful, the waterfront, the palm trees. Why not St. Pete?” he said.
The weekend is more than Indy Cars. Many sports car drivers are participating in other races throughout the weekend.
Driver Toby Grahovec says St. Pete is among the best race sites in the U.S.
“It’s pretty cool to race out here and see all the fans. It's right on the water and it’s awesome. I’m really looking forward to the next two days of racing.”
Expect heavy traffic in Downtown St. Pete for the race. For a full list of street closures click here.
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