Closed Colorado Drag Strip Receives Approval to Relocate and Reopen

      Bandimere Speedway

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      It's unfortunately common these days to hear about racetracks either being put up for sale or permanently closing. Like many small businesses, owners sometimes look to move on but struggle to find anyone interested in taking over. With impatient neighbors and the increased land value where these tracks are situated, it's not surprising that the number of operating tracks is dwindling. However, this doesn't have to be the case.

      Bandimere Speedway, a family-run quarter-mile drag strip in Colorado, ceased operations in 2023 after 65 years. However, the Bandimere family has been working on relocating the track, and they recently overcame a significant obstacle. Local news station 9News reported that the Hudson, Colorado town council has approved the annexation and zoning measures for the new site located next to Interstate 76, northeast of Denver.

      John Bandimere Jr.—the son of track founder John Bandimere Sr.—announced in 2025 that the family had acquired land in Weld County (where Hudson is located) for a new track. The town council's affirmative vote is a crucial step towards utilizing the purchased land, although there has yet to be any announcement regarding the commencement of construction.

      Initially, Bandimere Speedway was situated in Morrison, Colorado, but it became surrounded by development. The family shut down the original track with the intent of reopening at a new site with more space. The venue hosted NHRA events (it was known as "Thunder Mountain" in the pro circuit) along with smaller club events in its final year.

      At the time of the track's closure, the Bandimere family was reportedly searching for a location in the Denver area. Hudson is approximately 10 miles further from the city than Morrison, but it should provide the necessary space for Bandimere to expand. Additionally, it is situated at an elevation of 5,000 feet above sea level, meaning altitude will continue to pose a challenge for racers as it did at the original location.

      A lot still needs to happen before the Christmas tree lights up at Bandimere Speedway once more, but the Bandimere family has a strategy to keep the track alive. Unlike other owners who may simply place a "for sale" sign and wait for a buyer or let the place deteriorate, they are actively pursuing a solution. Fortunately, these narratives are increasingly being balanced out by success stories like that of Bandimere. Willow Springs Raceway has new owners with plans to revitalize the track, and the owners of Virginia International Raceway have recently secured the long-term future of that road course.

      Do you have information about a motorsports venue being revitalized? Reach out to us at tips@thedrive.com.