Control tower demolished at ISM Raceway

AVONDALE, Ariz. (KSAZ) - There's been plenty of upgrades being made at ISM Raceway and the latest involves a 30-year-old race control tower.

Today, ISM tore down the iconic, 30-year-old structure, which is the last phase in the construction project that's giving PIR a new look.

When the project is complete in November 2018, NASCAR fans and raceway lovers can look forward to a brand new, state-of-the-art facility.

"Race fans will be treated to a modern-leading edge motor sport facility that will feature escalators, elevators, brand new seats, Wi-Fi, a new sports bar, a brand new tunnel that will connect them to our incredible in-field experience, which is anchored with them actually being able to go into the NASCAR garage... our version of the locker room," said Bryan Sperber, ISM Raceway president.

Builders say the $178 million construction project puts Phoenix on the map to compete with major NASCAR destinations, like Indiana and Daytona.

"When the crowd comes here in November and realize the ease of enjoyment of an event here and the energy that they put into the fan engagement, I think it send a big message that phoenix is on the map for a longtime and ISM raceway is apart of that," said Mike Helton, vice chairman of NASCAR.

ISM says on top of the renovations being made, they believe the finishing touch will be the top-tier experience fans will get at PIR.