MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX
In 2021, we made Nashville race ready.
In 2021, Nashville welcomed the inaugural Music City Grand Prix, an IndyCar race that took place on a 2.17-mile street circuit that weaved through the heart of downtown. We had the opportunity to work as the general contractor for the infrastructure improvements required to bring the course to life and bring the first-ever race through downtown Nashville.
This exciting event brought in tens of thousands of racing enthusiasts from all over the world, and it showcased the vibrant energy and culture of Music City. Fans were able to witness incredible speeds and daring maneuvers as the drivers raced past iconic landmarks like the Nissan Stadium and the Cumberland River. The Music City Grand Prix was not just a race, but an unforgettable experience that celebrated the city's love for racing, music, and community and has started an annual tradition that will grace the city for years to come. We understand the importance of this event to the Nashville community and were honored to play a role in making it a success.
Our team worked around the clock to ensure that every aspect of the project was executed with precision and care. From planning and preparation to the final touches, we were committed to delivering exceptional results. Despite the tight timeline, we were able to deliver the course on time and within budget.
Our team worked tirelessly to complete this extensive project between being awarded the contract in May 2021 and the first-ever race that following August. The extensive work required to bring this race to life involved the following:
Demolition
Careful demolition of the existing asphalt and concrete surfaces to ensure the site was prepared for the new racetrack.
Asphalt Work
Milling the existing asphalt to prepare for the new sections of track, precision paving at the transitions and other asphalt elements of the course and performing road patching to create a consistent surface for the racers to navigate.
Paving pit lane and the transition from racetrack to pit row in front of Nissan Stadium.
Constructing course bridge approaches to ensure maximum safety and a smooth ride.
Smoothing and widening turns one and two to get the course ready for racers.
Pavement Marking
Pavement markings along the course to clearly define the racetrack and provide important information to drivers, like braking points, turn-in points and apexes.
Structure Installation
Installation and adjustment of various inlet structures to ensure proper drainage and prevent flooding during the race.
Concrete Work
Sidewalk and curb placement to ensure pedestrian safety and to provide clear boundaries for the racetrack.
Installing concrete on pit row to ensure pit stops could be performed with speed.
Widening sidewalks to ensure pedestrian safety during the event.
Gate Installation
Gate installation to control access to the course and ensure that only authorized personnel were allowed in restricted areas.
Traffic Loop Repairs
Traffic loop repairs to ensure that the racetrack was properly monitored and traffic was controlled during the event.
Bollards
Bollard removal prior to the race and reinstallation after the race to clear an area in front of Nissan Stadium for the event.
Street Furniture Relocation
The relocation of a light pole and fire hydrant to create a safer and more efficient racetrack layout. This involved careful planning and coordination with the local authorities to ensure that the necessary permits and approvals were obtained.
The hard work and dedication of our team paid off when the first-ever race was held in August 2021, and the event was a resounding success. We received positive feedback from both the drivers and the spectators, who were impressed with the quality and safety of the racetrack. Sessions is proud to also have prepped the course in 2022 and 2023.
We are thrilled to have helped bring the Music City Grand Prix to life. Being a part of this event has allowed us to showcase our dedication to quality, ability to undertake complex projects, and willingness contribute to the growth and vitality of our city.
We are grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this exciting event, and we look forward to continuing to serve the Nashville community with excellence and dedication.