I Need Help Building Track in Chicago

[ChgoSlingshot]

Hello all you rc racers and fans.

I am in the beginning stages of planning a new rc race track in Chicago, Illinois. The location is not set in stone yet. There are a few locations I am considering. It will depend on the rent, size, availability and the actual location. If you know of a good potential location, please let me know.

Of course there will be a full hobby shop on site in case racers need parts. I think Chicago is in need of a good LHS without having to go to the far suburbs and I know we could use a track.

I have all of the business details covered. I already have the suppliers lined up and I have lots of business experience. What I need help with is actually designing and building the track. I need to know things like the minimum amount of track space necessary, pit space, lane width, amount of turns, angle of turns, etc.

My goal is to create an indoor track that is pleasing to race on. It should be easy enough not to discourage newbies, yet challenging enough for veterans to have fun on.

Whether it will be a dirt off road track or a carpet track is still up for debate. It may come down to whatever is practical and whatever the landlord will allow. Demand is also a consideration, so let me know which you guys would prefer.

I am looking for someone with experience setting up a track and using lap counting software. This can be done on a consulting basis. If you just would like to offer your input, I'm all ears. If you are interested in an active role in the management of the track, I am looking for managers and employees as well.

I will also be looking for staff to man the hobby shop.

If you currently own, manage or work at a hobby shop, please do not take offense. I am not trying to steal your customers or in any way affect your business. I am not going after clientel from Joliet, Elmhurst, Wheeling or any other far away place. I am trying to provide a much needed service to people actually in Chicago. Your help and support in this would be appreciated by myself as well as many rc enthusiasts in Chicago.

If anyone has any good advice, please let me know.

Thanks

[chickenfarmer3]

offroad seems to do well around here, leisure hours indoor track is around 125x85 to give you a idea on size. lanes atleast 10' wide, mabey you should take a trip to LH and check out their facility, it is the best in the midwest for indoor and would be a good thing for you to check out.

[GWPHOENIX]

I'm not sure of any good land in Chicago or close suburbs but I do know of a great prime location that would be great access from the city.
In Bartlett on the corner of RT59 & RT20 on the south west corner is a big lot. This used to be a camper dealer but since has moved accross the street. USA 1 I believe. This is the location I always thaught about if I won the lottery.LOL
There is already a building and plenty of room for a out door track. Light poles are up on the west side with parking on the north. To the east is room for a addition.
The best part is there is no homes close by.

Just take the Elgin O'Hare west till it ends and hang a right on RT20. 1/4 mi past RT59

[BruceEdwards]

You might want to partner with the guy at Underground RC. They already have an indoor onroad track at the old Butternut Bread factory in Chicago at 40E. 54th St. They also run nitro drag races. They need an indoor nitro off road track. Talk to ChicagoKengi he's helping them develop a clientele.

[chicagokenji]

Originally Posted by ChgoSlingshot

I have all of the business details covered.

I've always wondered what city of Chicago requirements would be needed if a person were to open a RC racetrack?

Are the permits just a regular retail license and registered business license or is an amusement license also required?

http://tinyurl.com/2dthry

Same question on the Chicago Dept. of Revenue...what taxes need to be paid?

And last but not least...the Building Dept. regulations...what's needed?

[chickenfarmer3]

nice meeting you tonight Mike. If you need anything let me know.

[BruceEdwards]

Originally Posted by chickenfarmer3

nice meeting you tonight Mike. If you need anything let me know.

What vehicle was he running?

[chickenfarmer3]

he was just there watching Bruce, had on a black sweatshirt and glasses.