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May 5, 2010

Gearing Up

Baltimore's Board of Estimates is meeting now.  I'm not sure where the contract with Baltimore Racing Development for the 2011 Grand Prix is on the agenda, but today's Baltimore Sun story makes it sound like the green flag is already waving and there are plenty of people saluting.

There is supposed to be a press conference after the BOE vote, where the next steps will be outlined.  However, it sounds like Indy Race (the governing body of the circuit) is ready to bless Baltimore just as soon as the City signs the dotted line.

I love this kind of story because it keeps unfolding as more people discover the opportunities an event like this brings to the regional economy.  As with the Preakness, the benefits have a ripple effect as different segments of the hospitality and transportation industries realize what's in it for them.  Lots and lots of out of state visitors looking for places to stay, eat and visit.  Lots of yachts looking for marinas to accommodate them and service their vessels.  Lots of international stars to watch and cameras to catch the action.

And lots of adrenaline-fueled excitement for us locals with a view.  (Warehouse Bin 400 overlooks two tight turns on the course.  Can't wait to hear the swarming buzz.)

We'll have more as the story develops.  But today's contract ratification means the ignition key has been turned and the race to establishing a world class event in August, 2011 is underway.

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