Lapeer International Dragway, the dragstrip that underwent a complete ground-up renovation in 2018, has entered into a sanctioning agreement with the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA).

The Northeastern Michigan facility just outside the city of Lapeer can now participate in the IHRA Summit SuperSeries bracket racing program.

Track owner Bill Jennings, who bought the 1/4-mile track before the 2018 season, spent over $2.5 million in renovations to the over half-century old track, according to the IHRA. Improvements included tearing up the old racing surface and replacing it with concrete through the eighth-mile and asphalt for the other eighth-mile.

With a diamond-polished racing surface, it is called the “Fastest Pass in Michigan.”

“We had everything measured and set up to spec under IHRA supervision,” said Matt Valuka, the Lapeer International Dragway director of operations. “We constantly have people go down the track and when they pull in, they set [their] fastest pass, a best 60-foot. They find a lot of firsts out there.”

Other upgrades included a repaved return road, new pavement in the pits and concrete retaining walls all the way down the track. New fencing, lighting, and electrical, including an upgraded Accutime timing system, have also been installed.

Beyond the drag strip, work is scheduled for camping areas and future plans include a BMX bicycle track once approved by the township.

For more information, visit the IHRA website or the Lapeer International Dragway website.