Owosso Speedway

“In September of 1937 four local businessmen, Lysle May, Cecil Mead, Edward Sedlack, and James Morrison would break ground on what would eventually be known as the Owosso Speedway.”, according to the history generously offered by the Owosso Speedway website ”With only an old tractor and a hand operated grader the four men, who continued to work day jobs to fund the operation. Originally planning on building a half-mile high banked oval, plans pivoted to a quarter-mile dirt course. The Speedway would begin racing in 1939 before being forced to shut down efforts when a national motorsports ban came down during World War II.” Though ownership of the speedway has changed hands, it remains a landmark. The historic Owosso Speedway has undergone a complete transformation, bringing new life to one of the state’s oldest and most beloved racetracks. Over the years the track has evolved into a modern motorsports venue with upgraded grandstands and major safety and accessibility improvements.

The galvanizer partnered with the fabricator to refurbish and protect over 150 tons of structural steel, handrails, bleachers, and elevated platforms, including a large portion of original steel that was cleaned, restored, and re-galvanized for reuse. This reuse effort preserved the track’s character while giving decades of new service life to existing steel. Hot-dip galvanizing delivered the corrosion protection needed for outdoor exposure and heavy public use, while dramatically reducing maintenance and long-term cost. By blending sustainability, preservation, and performance, this project showcases how galvanizing can bring old steel back to life, supporting the rebirth of an iconic Michigan racetrack and ensuring it remains strong for generations of fans to come.