Stock Car Racing heartland faces closure of another grassroots racetrack
The small-town North Carolina racetrack, New River All American Speedway, has shut its doors indefinitely as announced on Facebook. The track, initialed as Coastal Plains Raceway in 1999, has endured numerous closures and reopenings over the past two decades.
In a recent Facebook post, track officials acknowledged the tough decision to close after exhaustive discussions regarding the venue's future. Specific reasons behind the closure were not disclosed in the statement. The track made its debut in 1999, hosting its first major race as part of NASCAR's Goody's Dash series later that year. Notable drivers, such as Dale Earnhardt Jr., have raced on the track, but its popularity has dwindled, with closures occurring in 2015, 2018, and now 2025.
In its brief revival in 2021, the track was once again sanctioned by NASCAR, hosting events like the zMAX CARS Tour from 2022 through 2025. Its 2025 calendar featured 33 races, including the SMART Modified Tour on August 29, as well as car shows.
As the future of New River All American Speedway remains uncertain, the adjacent Coastal Plains Dragway will continue to operate, according to Short Track Scene. The track, known for its variety of races and events, leaves behind memories and friendships forged during its operation under current ownership since 2021.
Further details about the closure and the track's potential future are yet to be revealed. Repeated closures and reopenings suggest that challenges in sustaining the New River All American Speedway have persisted over the years.
The closure of New River All American Speedway has led to a temporary hiatus in local football and sports events, as the racetrack had often hosted NASCAR races in the past. Despite the uncertain future of the racetrack, the adjacent Coastal Plains Dragway will continue to host racing events, showcasing the sport's resilience amidst the challenges faced by New River All American Speedway.
