The Atco Dragway announced this week that it will close permanently with immediate effect.
Atco Dragway, a haven for New Jersey-based speed freaks since 1960, has announced it will close for good.
According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, the official Atco Dragway social media channels announced the unfortunate news. “Effective immediately: Atco Dragway is permanently closed. We will not be open from this point on. The remainder of our schedule for 2023 will be canceled,” reads a message posted to Instagram.
No reason has been given for why the track is shutting down, and curiously, comments were turned off on both the Facebook and Instagram announcements. “Thank you for your valued business and support over the last 63 years,” reads the rest of the message.
Atco Dragway is part of the New Jersey racing community's fabric, having opened in 1960 as Atco Raceway.
Dragzine, a digital drag racing publication, also shared the announcement and received scores of angry and frustrated comments. Several angered fans expressed resentment at the news, with many wondering whether drag racing will soon die out across the country. Others took it further, chastising the owners and managers for giving up on the beloved track. Some just shared their cherished memories of the track.
A possible reason for the closure can be found in The Philadelphia Inquirer report. It states that, in 2020, an Illinois-based company applied with the New Jersey Pinelands Commission to redevelop the expansive 180-acre property on which the strip is located. The application allegedly states that the paved sections were to be used as a vehicle auction depot. Interestingly, the application was co-signed by Auto Dragway owner Leonard Capone Jr.
Neither Capone nor local government officials could be reached for comment.
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At the end of the day, while disheartening, it is a business, and the owner has every right to do as they please. But the closure of this and several other tracks across the country can create another problem.
Street racing and illegal sideshows are just two issues plaguing law enforcement nationwide. The closure of racetracks that make speed and racing legal will undoubtedly force people to partake in illicit racing activities, exacerbating an existing problem.
While it may not seem a priority, locations such as Atco Dragway play a pivotal role in the greater automotive community, allowing gearheads to enjoy their vehicles in a safe and controlled environment. It's a real shame, but Atco will never come alive to the sounds of a V8-powered Ford Mustang GT or a precision-tuned JDM sports car again.
Keyword: Legendary New Jersey Drag Strip Closes Its Doors For Good