The AP reported Dover Int'l Speedway yesterday "started work on a new catch fence that will be installed in time" for the '15 NASCAR season. The $2.9M fence will "stand at 21 feet, up from its current 15 feet." Other improvements at DIS in recent years include the "installation of SAFER barriers, the widening and lengthening of pit road, new fan care medical facilities and many fan experience improvements" (AP, 9/29).
GOODWILL HUNTING: In Tampa, Charlie Frago reported St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and Rays President Matt Silverman "met for about an hour Friday afternoon at Tropicana Field, the latest in a series of 'good' meetings" aimed at "resolving the long-running saga of finding" a new ballpark site. Kevin King, Kriseman's Chief of Staff, said that another meeting is "being scheduled and should take place soon." City officials said that they "remain hopeful that a deal can be reached by year's end" (TAMPABAY.com, 9/29).
FENCED IN: In Newark, Mike Vorkunov noted Mets GM Sandy Alderson on Sunday said that he "sees a likelihood" that fences at Citi Field will be "moved in in center and right-center field." Alderson: "It'll be good for the game, good for the fans, and I'm sure that one or two players will benefit as well" (Newark STAR-LEDGER, 9/29).
CRUNCHING THE NUMBERS: In Austin, Chad Swiatecki noted Circuit of The Americas has raised $170M in capital. COTA CEO Jason Dial said that it will be "used to refinance the debt generated" by the open-wheel track that opened in '12 (BIZJOURNALS.com, 9/26).
