On January 31, a grant-matching fundraiser was launched in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation through the Patronicity platform. The goal was to raise $50,000 by April 2nd, which would be matched dollar-for-dollar to unlock a total of $100,000 for the project. Thanks to a generous amount of support we were able to raise over $60,000 by April 2nd. We’re excited for work to begin on the project later this spring.

The proposed 40′ x 80′ pavilion will replace the temporary vendor tent currently in use, providing a durable and functional space for fans to enjoy food, drinks, and vendors. But this structure is more than just a shelter. It will serve as a year-round hub for community events, from the legendary I-500 Snowmobile Race to family gatherings, festivals, and other celebrations such as weddings and graduation parties.

The Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau received a $150,000 grant from the Great Lakes Sports Commission to support the renovation of the I-500 Snowmobile Track. The grant was presented at a ceremony held on April 28 at Kewadin Casino’s Woodlands Room.

The presentation was attended by members of the Great Lakes Sports Commission, Senator John Damoose, and other local stakeholders. The purpose of the presentation was to showcase the planned renovations to the I-500 Snowmobile Track and to celebrate the grant award… Continue reading here

• I-500 track project awarded, construction set to begin Summer 2025
• I-500 Project Receives $250,000 Grant from State
• Great Lakes Sports Commission Excited for I-500 Track Renovation
• Sault Ste. Marie I-500 Track and Property Awarded $150,000 for Renovation Project
• I-500 track upgrades would help create year-round facility
• Sault Ste. Marie looks beyond winter for snowmobile raceway
• Whitmer Announces $2M Investment to Support Tourism Industry in Sault Ste. Marie
• I-500 track to become a year-round venue following $2 million grant
• Grant aims to make I-500 grounds usable year-round

September 2022 – a dream was born. The Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau in conjunction with the City of Sault Ste. Marie was awarded a $2.5 million grant from the United States Economic Development Administration to breathe new life into the famed Soo International-500 Racetrack. Renovations will begin in the near future to enhance the famed racetrack.

Over the years, thousands of visited the Sault Ste. Marie to attend the I-500. The race itself is a cultural event for the entire Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan. However, we have felt there was always more potential with the track. More potential to attract race spectators. More potential to attract more events and attractions. It’s our goal to make these storied grounds useable year-round.

In the coming years, renovations will be performed on the track and facilities to help facilitate year-round tourism to the area. Visitors can expect to find new roads, revamped parking lots, a new vendor facility, and more work performed meant to make the track useable throughout the year. Please be sure to visit our website for more information about the I-500 grant and to see how you can be a part of the future of snowmobile racing in Sault Ste. Marie.