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Officials pleased with start
Atlanta Motorsports Park opens
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Capping months of construction and preparation, Atlanta Motorsports Park has officially opened.

Geared as a country club for motorsports enthusiasts, the park in western Dawson County features two miles of track designed for two- and four-wheel vehicles, one of the fastest straightaways in the Southeast, rental garages and a clubhouse.

Members came out last week to rev their engines and give the track a test run, according to Jeremy Porter, founder and CEO of the park.

“We were packed opening week,” he said. “It’s been really great having lots of people come out. We feel very fortunate to have everyone support us.”

The park has not been without controversy.

Adjacent landowners West and Helen Hamryka filed suit against the developer and the city of Dawsonville in 2009 in an attempt to halt construction.

However, Northeastern Judicial Circuit Senior Superior Court Judge John Girardeau ruled in the park and city’s favor in March 2010, disagreeing with the Hamrykas’ complaint that the park would create a nuisance.

Girardeau released the city, mayor and council members from the lawsuit. Then in November 2011, the Georgia Supreme Court refused to hear a challenge from the Hamrykas.

As of March, Porter reported the track had been paved and most of the infrastructure was in place. It still needed curbing, tire walls and another layer of pavement.

With the main construction finished, officials say staff members are ready to welcome members.

The go-cart track is estimated to be complete in 60 days. Later in the year, a swimming pool and tennis courts, which have been part of the site plans since the beginning, could be built.

Designed by famed Formula One architects, the road course highlights elevation changes and features two corners meant to pay homage to famed European race courses.

The complex is at 20 Duck Thurmond Road. Among other aspects to broaden the family and country club appeal is a world class kart and autocross track, clubhouse, restaurants, private garages, tennis courts, and swimming pool. AMP will be the first green, sustainable motorsports facility and country club of its kind.

“We encourage people to come and try us out, preferably only Dawson County residents for now,” Porter said. “They can visit free of charge.”

For more information on memberships and Atlanta Motorsports Park’s operating hours, visit www.atlantamotorsportspark.com.