Maryland International Raceway in Mechanicsville Maryland launched a community fundraising campaign January 2026 to replace its 34-year-old playground providing a safer play area for young fans and future drag racers at the drag racing facility in Southern Maryland’s St Mary’s County.
The project is part of ongoing facility improvements at MIR a longtime venue hosting NHRA drag racing events that draw families competitors and spectators from across the region. Through a partnership with St Mary’s County Parks and Recreation MIR will receive donated playground equipment from a county park in exchange for marketing and promotional support for Wicomico Shores Golf Course and Restaurant plus other county recreation programs.
The partnership addresses equipment costs but MIR must cover logistics including removal and delivery of the donated set from the county park removal and disposal of the existing outdated playground at MIR, elimination of old fencing and ground surfacing and purchase plus installation of new safety materials, specialized ground covering and fencing.
MIR owner Royce Miller stated Our future racers and fans deserve a space that is as exciting and safe as the track itself We are grateful for the support of St Marys County Parks and Recreation and look forward to seeing our community come together to build this for the kids.
Contributions will fund the renovation directly supporting a safe fun updated environment for children attending weekend events at the track located along Maryland Route 5 in Mechanicsville. Donations can be made online through the official GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/5913c855e or by calling the MIR office at 301-884-9833.
The campaign targets the racing community and local Southern Maryland residents, emphasizing family-friendly enhancements at a facility that serves as a key recreational and economic draw in St Marys County. MIR hosts numerous drag racing events throughout the yea,r including bracket racing test and tunes and special NHRA-sanctioned competitions, attracting participants and visitors from nearby counties including Calvert and Charles as well as broader Maryland and neighboring states.
The playground replacement aligns with broader efforts to improve visitor experiences at MIR, which operates as a private drag strip while collaborating with local government entities on community benefits. St Marys County Parks and Recreation manages multiple parks, playgrounds and recreational facilities serving a population exceeding 113000 residents, where family-oriented amenities support youth development and community engagement.
This initiative occurs amid ongoing infrastructure updates at the raceway, reflecting investment in long-term sustainability for a venue that has operated for decades in Southern Maryland’s rural landscape. The track contributes to the local economy through event-related spending on lodging, dining and fuel while providing entertainment for families in a region where outdoor recreation plays a significant role in quality of life.
Southern Maryland residents familiar with MIR’s family atmosphere can support the effort to ensure the youngest attendees benefit from modern safe play equipment matching the excitement of drag racing. The campaign encourages broad participation to complete the project ahead of the upcoming racing season.