On December 5th, the new 2.5 million dollar Trail head pavilion was finished and unveiled. The Sault Ste. Marie Convention and Visitors Bureau collaborated with local, county, and state leaders to secure a $2.5 million grant from the Economic Development Administration for property improvements, including the pavilion. 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. Additional upgrades to the property feature new fencing, paving of the main road, electrical system enhancements, and a new trail leading to the pavilion.

The 40′ x 80′ pavilion replaced the temporary vendor tent that was being used, providing a durable and functional space for fans to enjoy food, drinks, and vendors. But this structure is more than just a shelter. It serves 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.

For generations, thousands of visitors have traveled to Sault Ste. Marie to attend the legendary I-500. The race remains a longstanding tradition throughout the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan and continues to be one of the region’s most recognized winter events.

Recent improvements to the I-500 grounds have helped enhance the experience for racers, spectators, and visitors while supporting future growth at the facility. Upgrades include new fencing, paving of the main roadway, electrical system improvements, and a new trail leading to the pavilion. Additional enhancements include upgraded roads, improved parking areas, and a new vendor facility designed to better serve events held at the complex year-round.

These improvements continue to strengthen the future of the Soo I-500 while preserving the history and tradition of snowmobile racing in Sault Ste. Marie.

Visit our website to learn more about the I-500 grant project and future plans for the facility.