City's economic woes almost stalled Laird race season

A recent posting on the Laird International Raceway web site is offering insight into the challenges the raceway is facing, including layoffs and a downturn in the local economy.

Cancellation of the 2016 season was considered, but a decision was made by track management to continue with a reduced schedule.

The website post cited a downturn in the local economy as one reason a cancellation was considered and it noted many drivers and team members are currently laid off by employers like Essar Steel Algoma and Tenaris Algoma Tubes.

“Those layoffs bleed through our local economy, affecting many secondary industries with layoffs and cutbacks as well.  Even in the cases where one of our drivers is not suffering a layoff, they have to deal with cutbacks in sponsorships from local business owners,” reads the website post .

Instead of a cancellation, track management has decided on operating a reduced schedule for the 2016 racing season.

“We think this will be best for Laird, our drivers/teams/sponsors, and fans,” reads the post.

Unlike most seasons beginning in late May or early June, the 2016 season will begin on July 7, with eight race dates scheduled.