Race fans are saying a final goodbye to Rockford Speedway

LOVES PARK, Ill. (WIFR) – The demolition of the historic Rockford Speedway is nearing the finish line.

After 75 years of racing, the Deery family closed the venue in 2023. On Thursday, crews tore down some of the remaining parts.

The final rounds of demolition of what was once Rockford Speedway(WIFR)

As the demolition took place, passersby stopped to take photos and join other racing fans in telling stories about the site. Dan Roos lives only six kilometers from the circuit. He sat down on some stones and watched the demolition.

Dan Roos sits as he watches the final stretch of demolition at Rockford Speedway(WIFR)

When asked why Roos watched the demolition, he said that he “saw history disappearing.” He adds, “I know back in the day this was probably the only thing that was here; just cornfields and the Rockford Speedway.”

Machesney Park’s Jeff Wibbens also stopped at the former Rockford Speedway site. As a child, his father took him to track races. Later in his life, Wibbens was allowed to take his children to the Speedway.

Jeff Wibbens reminisces about the Rockford Speedway as the final part of the... — Jeff Wibbens reminisces about the Rockford Speedway as the final part of the site is demolished(WIFR)

“It is an emotional day for the community,” says Wibbens. “Everyone loves the Speedway. Once this building is here, it’s officially over.”

One thing many people will miss is hearing the sounds of racing on Saturday nights. But the community wants something big to come where the track once was.

An exciting and bittersweet day at Rockford Speedway Sunday when the track opens its doors... — An exciting and bittersweet day at Rockford Speedway Sunday as the track opens its doors for its 76th and final season on Sunday. (Photo taken on April 23, 2023)

There are a handful of options for what to do with the soil. Developers are busy attracting the attention of major retailers and chains. Some community members hope some type of restaurant will take the Speedway’s place.

Ryan Fitzgerald of Shorewood Development Group says, “We’ve been working with the city and we’re trying to attract major retail anchors there. As you know, Amazon has taken a toll on big box developments, so we’ve focused on attracting retailers.”

Fitzgerald says demolition should happen within a few weeks and more announcements about what will go into the space will come in the spring.