Banks County Commissioners Approve Return of Atlanta Dragway in Commerce

A historic motorsports facility in Banks County is one step closer to reopening after county leaders voted to allow racing to return to the former Atlanta Dragway property. In the words of Commissioner Chris Ausburn, "Start your engines!"

On February 10, the Banks County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a conditional use permit allowing a drag racing facility to operate again on the 318-acre site located near Banks Crossing in Commerce.

The property is home to the former Atlanta Dragway, a track that operated for decades and hosted nationally recognized racing events before closing in 2021.

The meeting drew a packed crowd of residents, business owners, and racing enthusiasts, many of whom voiced support for bringing the track back. Supporters emphasized the economic impact the facility historically had on the area, noting race weekends filled local hotels and restaurants and brought visitors from across the Southeast.

Commissioners approved the proposal with one condition — racing on Sundays may not begin before noon in order to avoid interfering with nearby church services.

With the county’s approval now in place, the project can move forward with planning, rebuilding, and scheduling events. Racing organizations have expressed interest in restoring operations and returning organized motorsports to the property.

The Atlanta Dragway originally opened in the 1970s and became a longtime fixture in Banks County and Northeast Georgia. For many residents, the track was both a cultural landmark and a major tourism draw.

County leaders say the decision balances economic development with community considerations as the area continues to grow.

If redevelopment proceeds as expected, the reopening would mark the return of organized drag racing to Commerce for the first time since the facility’s closure in 2021.