Grand Prix View: Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach Opening Up Race Track for Public Use on Tuesday, April 7

The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach is opening up its track to the public on Tuesday, April 7, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. For the third annual “Grand Prix View,” the community is invited to walk, bike, roller skate or even push a stroller along the course where the world’s best IndyCar drivers will scream at over 180 mph the following week. No motorized vehicles allowed; animals are not permitted with the exception of service animals.

“This free event is a great opportunity to get some exercise, socialize with friends and co-workers, and experience the race track from the perspective of some of the pre-eminent race car drivers in the world,” said Mayor Robert Garcia.

People can travel at their own pace while checking out the tire tracks and other sights of one of the most famous street courses in the world. The Grand Prix-View will cover 1.5 miles of the course, and travel in the same direction as the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, which starts the following week and draws approximately 170,000 spectators.

“I encourage the community to come out and enjoy this great experience. The Grand Prix View is a fun and unique way to enjoy one of our City’s signature events,” said Vice Mayor Suja Lowenthal.

The Grand Prix View is an Open Streets event, which promote the pursuit of innovative strategies to achieve environmental, social, economic, and public health goals. By repurposing streets for cyclists, pedestrians, and other non-motorized users, cities are encouraged to consider other ways our streets can be used.  On Saturday, June 6, 2015, another Open Street event will occur in Long Beach. “Beach Streets Uptown” will open up Atlantic Avenue for walking, bicycling, and socializing, by temporarily closing the street to vehicle traffic from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The transformation will stretch from Harding Avenue to Wardlow Road.

For the Grand Prix View, the entrance point for the public to access the track is at Hart Place and Seaside Way, just south of Ocean Boulevard. Parking is available for a fee at the Terrace Parking Structure.

For more information, including a map showing parking and entrance points, visit www.beachstreets.com.