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Council approves Firestone Grand Prix race days resolution; organizers tout economic and media benefits
Summary
City council unanimously approved a resolution establishing race days for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Organizers and administration highlighted economic impact (studies cited at roughly $61 million) and compressed set-up/dismantle timelines.
The City of St. Petersburg City Council unanimously approved a resolution establishing race days for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, the NTT IndyCar season opener, during the meeting.
Council action: Councilmember Brandy Gabbard moved approval; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. The clerk announced the motion to approve agenda item F2A "passes unanimously." The resolution authorizes use of city streets for the race and associated event operations as reflected in the long-standing public-private partnership with Green Savory Promotions and event owners.
Organizer and administration remarks: City Development staff and race promoters Kim Green and Kevin Savory summarized race logistics and benefits. City staff cited a previously published economic-impact study that estimated about $61,000,000 in overall impact, with roughly $37,000,000 in direct spending and about $3.3 million in tax revenue returning to the city. Organizers noted improvements to build and teardown timelines (from a previous 75 days to current 15 days build and 5 days teardown) and detailed broadcast arrangements, saying the event will be carried live on Fox Sports platforms.
Why it matters: The Firestone Grand Prix brings national and international exposure, tourist visitation and a multi-million-dollar economic boost to local businesses. Organizers emphasized the event’s investments in logistics and equipment that reduced neighborhood impacts from street closures.
Other notes: Council and organizers acknowledged long-term city staff partners and thanked Chris Balestra of City Development, who is retiring in March after many years supporting the event. Organizers noted community components including a 5K benefiting the Police Athletic League and youth engagement programs.
Ending: Council approved the resolution to permit race operations; the city and race promoters signaled ongoing coordination to further reduce neighborhood impacts and support associated community programs.
