Michigan International increasing safety

Published 8:23 am Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Michigan International Speedway will install safer barriers on the inside and outside walls of both the frontstretch and backstretch for the 2016 racing season it was announced Friday. Additional barriers will be added for the upcoming year. (Leader photo/File)

Michigan International Speedway will install safer barriers on the inside and outside walls of both the frontstretch and backstretch for the 2016 racing season it was announced Friday. Additional barriers will be added for the upcoming year. (Leader photo/File)

BROOKLYN — Following a significant review of the facility by International Speedway Corporation and NASCAR, additional safety measures will be implemented prior to the June NASCAR weekend.

Steel and Foam Energy Reduction (SAFER) will be added to pit in and pit out walls and tire pack barriers will be installed at the angled wall inside Turn 1.

“The safety of our guests, competitors and staff is our number one priority,” said Roger Curtis, MIS president. “We will continue to review our facility and provide updates as circumstances warrant.”

Additionally, the infield at the exit of pit road will be paved to function as a skid pad and pace car vehicle entry and exit.

Upon the conclusion of the August NASCAR weekend and installed in time for the 2016 racing season, Michigan International Speedway will add SAFER to outside walls on the frontstretch and backstretch as well as the pit tri-oval wall.

Michigan International will host the NASCAR Xfinity and Sprint Cup Series, as well as the ARCA Racing Series in June.

The Quicken Loans 400 will be run on June 14.

NASCAR returns in August with the Camping World Truck Series race Aug. 15 and the Sprint Cup Pure Michigan 400 Aug. 16.

Tickets for all events are now on sale.