Local hobbyists ask commission for city space to build RC car track

A group of radio-controlled (RC) car hobbyists addressed the Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Commission to ask the city for land and basic utilities to build an outdoor RC car track and practice area.

Lead presenter Amir Ben Hazem described the hobby’s benefits for hand-eye coordination across ages and said events such as 1/10-scale “crawler” competitions can generate revenue to sustain a community-run facility. He said the closest suitable outdoor tracks are 30–60 minutes away and asked the commission to consider a site of roughly 70,000–90,000 square feet with parking, electricity, water and portable restrooms. Ben Hazem said volunteers would help build and maintain the track and that local clubs already fundraise for track piping and upkeep at other sites.

Commission members asked about attendance and safety. Ben Hazem and other speakers said typical racing events can draw dozens of competitors: he cited a recent Crossville event with 120 competitors across multiple classes and a local weekly evening meet with about 17 drivers. They said competitions attract visitors from as far away as Iowa and that families, kids and older adults participate; one attendee described a 77-year-old competitor who uses the activity to improve coordination.

Commission staff said they will take the request under consideration and follow up with the presenters for contact information; staff did not commit to a location or timetable.

No formal action or vote was taken on the request at the meeting.

The presenters said they maintain a Facebook group (BorrowRC) for organizing and outreach.