by Donnie Clark
Economic Development Project Manager
Mansfield Speedway officially broke ground under the new ownership of Matt and Jordan Tifft, launching a multi-million-dollar revitalization of the historic 178-acre site located at 100 Crall Road on the city’s north side.
Hinckley, Ohio native Matt Tifft, a former NASCAR driver and team owner, and his wife Jordan are reimagining the 0.44-mile dirt track into a regional destination for entertainment, motorsports, and family-friendly events. The project includes upgrades to infrastructure, grandstands, concessions, and fan areas.
Construction will begin this summer, led by local firm Simonson Construction Services. “With the history of Mansfield Speedway, we’re so excited to return this place to a spot not only for racing but for community events and more,” the 28-year-old Matt said. “Our vision is to restore and enhance this facility to be so special for so many generations to come.”
Originally built in 1959, the track has long been a staple of Ohio’s storied racing history. The Tiffts aim to honor that legacy while bringing new energy and innovation to the venue. Among the proposed facility enhancements are a beer garden, a VIP deck, additional grandstands, and a kids’ zone.
“This really is ‘the people’s track’ and we want to design it for everyone,” Jordan said. “We also have a comprehensive approach to safety and accessibility. Everyone deserves a day out at the track.”
Once completed, fans can expect a variety of entertainment programming, including festive holiday light displays and events built around the emerging Ohio car culture scene.
“We are so excited by this new investment in Mansfield,” City of Mansfield Mayor Jodie Perry said. “This is an iconic property with a great history, and I look forward to working with their team to bring it back to life!”
“We are thrilled and extremely fortunate to have Matt and Jordan investing in our region,” Ellen Heinz, CEO/President of Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development, added. “They are extremely talented with an amazing vision for the project. We are grateful for this enormous opportunity for Richland County and Ohio!”
Mansfield Speedway joins an impressive and growing list of Richland County revitalization projects, where legacy sites have been reimagined as vibrant destinations. Once a desolate prison, the Ohio State Reformatory is now a world-renowned destination. The pre-Civil War era mill in Bellville is now Elzy Milling & Trade, a thriving retail and manufacturing experience. A mainstay downtown Shelby bank now shines as The Vault, an award-winning wine bar. With its own colorful and eventful backstory, Mansfield Speedway is poised to become the next successful Richland County reinvention, aiming to entertain both residents and visitors alike.
Mansfield Speedway construction updates and event announcements can be found on Instagram @Mansfieldspeedway and YouTube @matt_tifft.