The Commonwealth Grandstand, which is on schedule to be completed in time for the May 4-5 NASCAR doubleheader at Richmond International Raceway, is approximately 75% complete. The construction project will add nearly 5,000 seats for the 2007 season and will feature three new levels: the Lower Mezzanine, the 700-person club level named TORQUE and the Commonwealth Tower.

"This incredible project will provide excellent views from what we feel is the best motorsports venue anywhere," said track president Doug Fritz. "Richmond International Raceway has always been known as a fan-friendly track, and with the addition of these seats with amazing sightlines, we will further anchor our position as America's Premier Short Track."

Over the past 60 days, construction crews have installed all of the seats in the Commonwealth Tower and Lower Mezzanine levels and extensive progress has been made in TORQUE, including the installation of electrical, plumbing and HVAC equipment. The project team will begin to hang dry wall in TORQUE by February 5 and begin interior work by March 1.

The 180-foot grandstand is the tallest structure in Henrico County and is approximately two feet higher than the tower at Richmond International Airport. Towns and landmarks more than 30 miles away are visible from the top of the grandstand.

Once completed, the new capacity of Richmond International Raceway will rise from 107,097 to 112,029. Included in the project will be 7,843 seats in the new Commonwealth Grandstand and the removal of 2,911 seats in turns three and four.