Traffic Tie Ups Expected in Banks County for NHRA Weekend Event

Banks County law enforcement and the Georgia State Patrol will be out in force in Banks County this weekend for the 33rd-annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway in Commerce.

Thousands of racing fans are expected to attend the annual race this weekend and that means traffic tie-ups are expected on I-85 and along U.S. 441 into and out of Banks County.

According to Banks County Emergency Management Agency/9-1-1 Director Deidra Moore a mobile command vehicle from GEMA will be used this year as a base point for all county safety personnel.

Additionally, Banks County will have its own trailer for emergency personnel available.

Banks County Sheriff Carlton Speed meantime, is advising motorists traveling along I-85 and U.S. 441 to use extra caution and if not going to the race, take alternate routes if possible.

Speed said the Georgia State Patrol also will have personnel at the track and in the county during the weekend.

Spectator gates open at 8 a.m. this mornign and Saturday, and at 7:30 a.m. Sunday.  Funny Car qualifying is set for 5 and 7 p.m. tonight, while Top Fuel qualifying is scheduled at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.

On Saturday, Top Fuel qualifying will be held at 1 and 3 p.m., with Funny Car qualifying at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.  Competition rounds begin at 11 a.m. Sunday, following Championship Sunday Driver Introductions at 10 a.m.

Atlanta Dragway is located at 500 E. Ridgeway Road, Commerce.  More information about tickets, the “rain-out policy for ticket-holders,” and the event schedule can be found at  www.nhra.com.