Charlotte Council Looks at $25M NASCAR Hall of Fame Upgrade as Visitor Numbers Grow

City officials moved a $25 million plan to update the NASCAR Hall of Fame toward a full council vote. While more guests walk through its doors, the site still falls short of its initial targets.

The updates would add space for events, boost security, and build an area for student learning. Since opening its doors in 2010, the building hasn't seen major changes.

"This is more than an upgrade — it's a long-term investment in ensuring the Hall continues to deliver value for Charlotte and its visitors for years to come," said Executive Director Winston Kelley, according to The Charlotte Observer.

Guest counts rose to 201,840 in fiscal year 2024, up from 184,366 the year before. The site expects to bring in $10.9 million next year, slightly above this year's $10.8 million.

Most of the $25 million would go to building work, about $12 to $15 million. The rest would pay for designs, permits, and new items inside. A 2% tax on hotel stays would fund these changes.

The site stumbled at first. Instead of drawing 800,000 people in year one, only 272,000 came. The next year saw just 197,000 visitors, less than half the 400,000 goal.

Cash problems struck in 2015. The city paid $5 million, leading Bank of America and Wells Fargo to write off part of a $19.1 million building loan. NASCAR also gave up $3.2 million it was owed.

"I'm comfortable about the capacity, and I wouldn't want to second-guess the judgment of the people running the Hall in terms of the suitability of these improvements," said council member Ed Driggs per The Charlotte Observer.

The $150 million building came from hotel taxes and two $20 million loans. New plans would switch where guests buy gifts and eat, while making room for groups to meet and learn.