Image via Willow Springs
Willow Springs International Raceway has been sold and the new owners, which include Singer Vehicle Design (yes, the Porsche tuner) have some big changes in store. While some are happy to see the track isn’t just sitting unused or even worse being bulldozed to make way for some new luxury condos, others believe the transformation is going to ruin the facility’s charm.
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For a long time, the Huth family owned and ran Willow Springs in Rosamond, California. But last summer the facility was put up for sale and uncertainty loomed. Many worried it would be the end of the track and its rich traditions.
With a history stretching back to the early 1950s, Willow Springs has its claim to fame as the oldest permanent road course in the United States. For that reason alone, it’s beloved by enthusiasts and members of the motorsports community, so any changes made to it are going to strike some nerves.
CrossHarbor Capital Partners, a private investment and asset management firm that focuses on real estate, went in on buying Willow Springs along with Singer. The new owners have angered some automotive journalists and enthusiasts by serving eviction notices to businesses and residents at the facility ahead of closing everything down for part of the summer to perform renovations.
That, of course, is being portrayed as a heartless move. We get how disappointing that must before for those who have lived and/or worked there a long time. But at the same time, when the facility went up for sale, everyone should have understood the potential risks.
Another upcoming change that’s rumored to be coming is higher prices. Willow Springs has offered bargain deals compared to other tracks, so that’s apparently going to be no more. On the flip side, the track will be accessible to the public, bucking the trend of ritzy, super-expensive private tracks we see popping up more and more.
All three road courses will be improved and the ATV courses, kart tracks, even driver instruction will all continue to be offered. Details and other changes will be announced later.
Singer has plans to starts its first private member’s club at Willow Springs. That means exclusive track days and other gatherings.
We know no matter what the new owners do, some people will just complain. For once it’s great to see an historic track that’s in need of some TLC get that and remain open to the public. This is a huge win.
Image via Willow Springs
