Developers unveil plans for 2.2-mile ‘European-inspired’ race course, ‘garage condos’ in Howell

SEPTEMBER 20TH, 2021

LIVINGSTON COUNTY, MI -- Start your engines!

A 2.2 mile “European-inspired” driving circuit is envisioned for a 270-acre property in Howell, part of what developers are calling an “automotive country club.”

Motorsports Gateway Howell, as father-son team Mark and Jordan Dick have christened the project, has been five years in the making.

“It’s invigorating to be working with people that feel the same passion as we do to build a unique destination for the city of Howell” Jordan Dick, who has competed as a Formula BMW series and Tans Am series driver, said in a statement.

Plans for the development on vacant property along I-96 include a clubhouse and 1,200-square-foot “garage condos” inside a gated community, where members can store automobiles and take in the race course from exterior balconies. The buildings are slated to be ready by December 2022, developers say.

The driving circuit is being designed following Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile safety standards, following the contours of the landscape. The track will include electronic flag displays, CCTV and timing sectors capable of collecting “safety and timing data,” according to a news release.

Developers intend for the track to be drivable by summer 2023.

Still, site plans haven’t yet been presented to Howell officials for review. The site has been the subject of previous failed development, and city officials have been trying to sell it since 2012, according to news reports.

In February, city leaders OK’d a 2-year lease agreement with Mark and Jordan Dick, which can transition into a $3-million purchase agreement if certain milestones are met.

The team behind the development intends for future phases to include an “automotive innovation park” and entertainment district.

“We are thrilled to be part of the design team for this project and the opportunity to redefine the sports-anchored development, framed by motorsports,” Matt Taylor, principal and design lead with Rosetti, an architecture firm involved in the development, said in a statement.

Interested in owning a garage or becoming a member? Developers say an event is coming in early October by Jeff Glover & Associates, the listing agent for the properties, and a website for the development includes more information.

Lucas Smolcic Larson
93.5 WHMI

lsmolciclarson@mlive.com