Southern Vancouver Island’s racing community may have reason to celebrate soon, as plans for a new race track are gaining momentum.
The Vancouver Island Safe Speed Association (VISSA), a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving stock car racing on the island, has been working tirelessly to secure a new location for a speedway since the closure of the iconic Western Speedway in 2022.
The Western Speedway, located off Millstream Road, was sold to developers with plans to transform the site into a business park with residential homes, a hotel, and a film studio.
Its closure marked the end of an era for motorsport enthusiasts, leaving the Island without a dedicated race track. However, VISSA has not given up hope of reviving the local racing scene.
At a recent fundraising dance and Western Speedway reunion, VISSA President Steve Copp provided an update on the organization’s efforts. Copp, joined by VISSA directors Jason Frost, Daryl Crocker, Darell Midgley, Jesse Stamm, and Todd Troyer, shared the highs and lows of their journey to find a new location.
“We’ve explored countless properties,” Copp said, listing areas such as Langford, Shawnigan, Malahat Nation, Cowichan First Nations land, and even sites as far as Jordan River and Youbou. Each property presented unique challenges, from size limitations and rocky terrain to environmental concerns and proximity to residential areas.
Despite the setbacks, VISSA remains committed to its mission. “As of this date, VISSA has not given up hope and is still united as a group,” Copp reassured supporters.
One of the most exciting developments in VISSA’s search is a preliminary partnership with a local First Nation. Copp revealed that he and fellow director Daryl Crocker recently met with a Chief Administrative Officer from a First Nation on southern Vancouver Island.
The meeting was productive, with discussions centred on land size, noise reduction plans, and future expansion. The First Nation’s board has expressed openness to the project, and there is optimism that a suitable property will be found.
Additionally, VISSA has found an ally in the political arena who has experience working on similar projects. This collaboration has opened doors to potential government funding and resources, adding further momentum to the initiative.
VISSA’s proposed phase-one plans envision a state-of-the-art facility that caters to a variety of motorsport enthusiasts.
The plans include:
- A short-track oval
- An integrated road course facility
- A 1/8-mile drag strip
- A family RV park and campsite to support long-lasting events
The new race track would not only preserve Vancouver Island’s rich motorsport culture but also provide an economic boost to the local community through tourism and event hosting.
VISSA has been overwhelmed by the support of the racing community, with countless volunteers dismantling and relocating parts of the former Western Speedway, including stands, concessions, and time clocks.
Copp acknowledged that while there is still much work to be done, the recent developments mark a significant step forward. “There are a lot of moving parts and work being done behind the scenes,” he said.
The next step involves presenting detailed plans to the First Nation’s board, and VISSA is optimistic that this partnership could finally bring their vision to life.
