Work has already started for this year’s Thunder in the Valley, the city’s annual drag racing event in August.
Workers have been clearing a portion of the boulevard between the railway tracks and Stamp Avenue across from Catalyst Paper. Bill Surry of the Alberni Valley Drag Racing Association (AVDRA) said that the plan is to install bleachers for viewing, as well as a gravel walkway up to the train tracks.
A few large trees will be left in place, and the area will be leveled and seeded with grass to provide a park-like setting for spectators.
The construction work is funded by the AVDRA.
“It’s going to be a real nice area for people,” said Surry. “The hope is afterwards we’ll have seats for people throughout the year.”
Races will be run along Stamp Avenue in front of the Catalyst Mill on Saturday, Aug. 12 and Sunday, Aug. 13. For more information check out www.albernidragracing.com.
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