Sonoma Raceway event might make traffic a drag, too

Drivers thinking of cruising the south Sonoma County highways this weekend should be aware that Sonoma Raceway will host their NHRA Drag Racing event this weekend, July 28-30.|

Drivers thinking of cruising the south Sonoma County highways this weekend should be aware that Sonoma Raceway will host the annual Toyota NHRA Sonoma Nationals Mello Yello Drag Racing event this weekend, July 28-30.

Traffic on the surrounding roadways may be impacted, particularly the two-lane stretches of Highways 37 and 121. The raceway expects traffic to be most affected during the following hours:

• Friday, July 28: Exiting traffic between 8 p.m.-10 p.m.

• Saturday, July 29: Exiting traffic between 4 p.m.-7 p.m.

• Sunday, July 30: In and out traffic between 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

The heaviest traffic is expected on Sunday, and race fans heading to the track are advised to arrive early to avoid traffic and enjoy the complete race-day experience. Gates open at 10 a.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday; racing is expected to conclude at approximately 4 p.m. on Sunday.

A primary focus is to encourage non-race attendees to utilize alternative routes in and out of the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. In past years, up to 85% of the drivers passing the raceway on Highways 37 and 121 during peak entry and exit times are not attending the event. When combined with race traffic, the results can bring hours of congestion for all drivers.

To ensure sufficient parking for its disabled guests, Sonoma Raceway will continue to work with the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office on a stringent placard check. Sheriffs will check each car and driver for its Handicap Placard, matching paperwork with name and placard number and a valid Driver’s License.

Persons displaying fake or placards that are not their own will be fined, ticketed and required to appear in court.

For more information about the Toyota NHRA Sonoma Nationals event weekend, visit www.sonomaraceway.com/nhra

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