DETROIT – Detroit is gearing up for one of its biggest weekends of the year as the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix transforms city streets into a high-speed raceway.
More than 100,000 fans are expected to descend downtown, bringing excitement -- and a need for a comprehensive public safety plan.
Drivers hit the track -- bumps included
The 1.7-mile circuit winds through the heart of downtown Detroit, drawing racing fans from across the region and giving drivers a unique opportunity to experience the Motor City.
“The streets around there are pretty bumpy for the drivers, but it always creates some good action,” said Dennis Hauger, one of the drivers competing this weekend.
Beyond the track, some drivers made time to connect with the community, stopping by Children’s Hospital of Michigan for a visit ahead of race weekend.
“When kids look up to us, that’s one of the most special feelings of my job,” said driver Juan Manuel Correa.
Free Prix Day, three days of racing action
Race weekend spans three days -- Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Friday is Free Prix Day, a partnership with Fifth Third Bank that allows fans to watch on-track action at no cost.
Safety is top priority for Detroit police, fire
With large crowds expected, Detroit Police and Fire officials say they have a robust public safety strategy in place.
“We have a lot of local, state and federal partners that have come to the city to assist us,” said Donald Thomas, Detroit fire marshal.
Detroit Police will have uniformed officers and undercover units working the crowds. Officials say they will also deploy technology to monitor the event and enable quick response times.
When asked whether they were prepared for a potential teen takeover, Assistant Chief Franklin Hayes of the Detroit Police Department expressed confidence.
“I’m confident, as we’ve been working with our youth here in these public spaces, as to how to govern themselves accordingly that we won’t have that issue, but we are prepared in the off event it does happen or concur,” Hayes said.
Detroit-Windsor Tunnel stays open; road closures in effect
Despite significant street closures throughout the weekend, the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel will remain open. Fans heading downtown should check the Detroit Grand Prix website for the latest road closure information before heading out.