By Eric Curl
Dec. 20, 2022 – Semi-trucks and forklifts are set to replace monster trucks and stock cars at the site of the former Oglethorpe Speedway Park in Pooler.
On Monday, the Pooler City Council approved Atlanta-based SDP Acquisitions request to rezone the former Oglethorpe Speedway Park site, along with surrounding properties, from residential to light industrial.
SDP is planning a 294-acre industrial complex and the rezoning is needed to accommodate warehousing and truck transportation uses, according to the agenda packet. A conceptual plan was provided showing nine warehouses on the site, including one taking up the entire Oglethorpe Speedway racetrack, but that layout could change. SDP will have to submit a site plan for approval prior to moving forward with the development.
More than 90 parcels were assembled to create the industrial complex, representing an “unusual coalition of property owners who wish to sell their properties for above value pricing to SDP”, according to the developer’s rezoning application.
In a letter of support, one of the property owners said that the area had experienced increased industrial development over the past two decades and that residents have had to endure associated issues such as the noise of truck air brakes, horns, back-up alarms and shouting from warehouses.
A “key feature” of the project will be that the project will not access Dublin Road or US 80, according to Attorney Harold Yellin, on behalf of the developer. Rather, it is the intention of the developer to access Dean Forest Road and/or Old Dean Forest Road via Raymond Street.
The Oglethorpe Speedway held its final race in November 2021, following 70 years of hosting stock car races, monster truck shows, demolition derbies, rodeos and more on its dirt track. 
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