"We knew about the history of the Vineland racetrack and we knew about the park, and we started thinking, 'What can we do to incorporate the Motorsports Park in our place?'" John Scipione said.
The owners renamed the hotel coffee shop the "Speedway Café" and are gathering memorabilia from the park and the former Vineland Speedway to place on the walls. John Scipione said they want to convert the entranceway into the restaurant as a "wreck alley" with debris from crashes at the park. They are also trying to secure pictures and memorabilia from the park, the former Vineland Speedway and the Sprint NASCAR racing series to hang on the walls. They also plan to paint a portrait of one of the park's two tracks on a back wall.
"Every place you see a spot on the wall we will fill with motorsports," Scipione said.
The Scipiones are not alone in their attempt to draw more business from the Motorsports Park.
The race complex in Millville just completed its second season of spectator events. Some local establishments have already found success tailoring their business to attract race fans and drivers. Others say the momentum is just building and expect things to pick up as the Motorsports Park matures.
Roger Patel changed the name of his Economy Inn on North 2nd Street in Millville to the Motorsports Inn and Suites this summer to attract park business. Patel said the season was longer this year and the major events were more spread out. Though business has been down at all hotels due to the economy, Patel said he had steady business from the park all year, but only sold out for three major weekends.
"I'm not sure there is enough business to support more hotels," yet, he said.
Allison Corson, assistant director of the Glasstown Arts District, said businesses reported this year was their best since the district was established in 2000. She said many shopkeepers credit the Motorsports Park for the uptick in business.
Brian Tomlin, owner of the The Old Oar House Irish Pub on North High Street in Millville, said he saw a lot of repeat business from customers he met at the park last year.
Tomlin said drivers and club members told friends where they stayed and ate and returned to those same places this year. The Oar has hosted drivers and teams after races and some have left autographed memorabilia, he said.
Tomlin's establishment is even more popular than he realized.
NASCAR driver Bobby LaBonte was at the park last week for a special autograph session.
"I stuck my hand out and introduced myself," Tomlin said. "I said I owned the Oar. He told me he's been there."
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