Crews begin dismantling Grand Prix racetrack

The dismantling of the Firestone Grand Prix racetrack in downtown St. Petersburg commenced on Monday, following a thrilling weekend of racing. This extensive process is expected to take about three weeks, with around 300 workers involved in breaking down the course, which includes 20 million pounds of concrete and 25,000 feet of chain-link fencing. Event co-owner Kevin Savoree described the operation as "organized chaos" and noted the efficiency with which the structures will be removed and stored for future use. He expressed a mix of melancholy and pride, acknowledging the hard work that went into the event and the excitement for next year's edition.

The streets around the track are set to reopen soon, along with Albert Whitted Airport, restoring access to the area. Savoree referred to the annual race as a "Super Bowl experience," underscoring its significance for the local community. As cleanup crews work diligently, the event owners are already brainstorming ways to enhance the experience for next year. The swift dismantling process reflects the well-organized nature of the event, ensuring minimal disruption to the city.