July 2005 - THINKING ABOUT BUILDING AN INDOOR KART TRACK? READ THIS FIRST!

By Peter F. Olesen

Building an indoor track is a long, tedious process. Here is a short list of do’s and don’ts that will help you in the process.

Some of the most important “do’s” in starting the indoor kart track process are:

Recognize the importance of being committed to long working hours and to provide a quality entertainment product.
Make certain your target market is sufficient to support the facility over a protracted period. Unless you are in a large urban or dense suburban area, it would be advisable to have a demographic study done.
Select a good location, easy to see and find, with safe access from adjacent roadway.
Have sufficient financing to build the facility and support a poor season.
Select an experienced and qualified design consultant that will represent your best interests.
Select a sound contractor, sound insurance agent and quality equipment.
Remember that your customers are “guests” and treat them that way.

Some of the most important “Don’ts” are as follows:

Don’t try to develop a facility beyond the scope of the market.
Don’t’ assume that because you’ve visited a few tracks and talked to their owners that you are an expert.
Don’t buy consulting services, insurance or equipment just because it is cheap or looks good. Check out consultants, insurance agents and manufacturers to find out their “track records” at a number of facilities to see how they perform. This applies to karts, kart controllers, lighting, etc.
Don’t select a contractor on price alone — check out his/her performance on other projects. The adage “pay now or pay later” should be in the back of your mind during your selection process.
Don’t select a contractor on the basis of years of experience and his/her knowledge of what you “need”. Today’s technology, standards of practice and industry guidelines may have passed by a contractor. Have a set of plans and specifications that set out the track geometrics and associated support systems such as barriers, lighting, queue lines, floor finishing, air handling equipment and related items. Make certain the contractor follows them and guarantees workmanship.
Don’t lose the respect of your staff or guests.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Peter F. Olesen is president of peter F. Olesen and Associates, a consulting firm for the family entertainment industry. His telephone number is 847-253-1515.

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