New legislation would protect local racetracks like Berlin Raceway

MARNE, Mich. — The sound of cars speeding around the track has long been part of the experience at Berlin Raceway.

“There’s no doubt, there’s some noise associated with what we’re doing out here,” said Andrew Postma with Berlin Raceway.

But Postma said that sound can also be a source of controversy for some neighbors.

“Just like anything, right? There’s always, you know, a lot of people that support you, and maybe a few that don’t, and sometimes they can be kind of loud,” said Postma.

Two bills moving through the Michigan Legislature, House Bill 5652 and Senate Bill 0773, known as “Right to Race,” would give more than 20 racetracks across the state protection against nuisance claims from developments built nearby.

Postma said that matters as communities like Ottawa County continue to grow.

“Ottawa County is growing quick, just here, close to home, growing very quickly,” said Postma. “And so to have that element of, hey, you’ve been here, you’re established, you’re a community asset, certainly something that we’re watching closely and we’re optimistic on.”

Each year, Berlin Raceway hosts more than 20 races during the spring and summer, drawing fans from across West Michigan to the rural community and bringing customers to nearby businesses.

Postma said the track remains an important part of the local economy and community.

“1,000 people out here every week joining us for our races,” said Postma. “We have over 100 race day employees, people that are working on race days. So we really do just take pride in being here, a staple in the community, and providing what we can for race fans.”

If passed, the bills would help ensure tracks like Berlin Raceway can continue operating even as development grows around them.