The City of Newton is putting out a reminder that there will be a significant increase in traffic this weekend for the NASCAR races at Iowa Speedway. 30,000 to 35,000 fans are expected Saturday and Sunday for the NASCAR Xfinity and Cup Series races. In addition, there will be race team members, Iowa Speedway staff, and media personnel. Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess says keeping everyone safe involves a lot of cooperation among approximately a dozen public safety agencies and divisions.

“Getting them in and out of the facility in a safe manner is a huge win for our public safety team. And that’s not just the Newton Police Department. That’s other agencies like the Iowa State Patrol, the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Newton Fire Department, and Jasper County Emergency Management, It’s really a team effort.”

Members of the Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Department of Transportation, Newton Police Department, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa Speedway traffic and parking teams will have signage, message boards, and cones in place to guide fans. Those attending the races are asked to allow extra time for travel and arrive early to help reduce congestion. Parking lots at Iowa Speedway open at 12:30 p.m. today for the 6 p.m. ARCA Menard Series Race, and at 7 a.m. Saturday and 8 a.m. Sunday.

After each race, Interstate 80 exit ramps at Exit 168 will temporarily close in both directions. Traffic on Iowa Speedway Drive at South 13th Avenue East will also be directed to assist with moving vehicles out of that area safely and efficiently.