Atlanta Motorsports Park gets green light

April 14, 1:56 PMAtlanta Sport Bike ExaminerBeth Dolgner

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(Photo: American Suzuki)

Playing golf is so old-fashioned. The latest trend in country clubs is private race tracks, where members pay for the privilege of driving on the track. Atlanta Motorsports Park is going to be just such a place. Before they could even break ground, though, the track owners had to gain approval from the Dawsonville, Georgia City Council.

Amid protesters who cited concerns ranging from excessive noise to environmental pollution, the City Council voted unanimously to approve the Zoning Amendment requested by Atlanta Motorsports Park officials. The approval came with two stipulations: noise abatement measures must be taken, and paid spectator events will not be allowed.

Now that they have the Zoning Amendment, the ground-breaking for the new track is expected to begin within 60-90 days. The track will be located on a 152-acre site on Highway 53, north of Atlanta.

Ironically, despite protests about the track's potentially negative impact on the environment, Atlanta Motorsports Park owner Jeremy Porter intends to construct the facility with sustainable materials, recycling programs and other green initiatives.

Anyone who wants to drive the 2.77-mile race track or one of its shorter configurations must become a member. And yes, motorcycles will be allowed on track as well as cars.