HC+M’s Role in Preserving the Speedway

Since the 1930s, the paving of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) has been entrusted to experts who understand the unique demands of a raceway. Grady Brothers Asphalt managed the asphalt paving until 2004 with Heritage Research Group (HRG) contributing to the 1988 overlay and refining pavement rehabilitation strategies by 1995. By the time the last full repaving occurred in 2004, Heritage Construction + Materials (HC+M) and The Heritage Group companies played a vital role in the process: Milestone handling mix production and quality control, US Aggregates® supplying materials, Asphalt Materials, Inc. (AMI) producing liquid asphalt, and HRG designing the mixes. 

The IMS repaving wasn’t just a construction project, it was an opportunity to advance pavement technology. HC+M companies introduced groundbreaking advancements that have since become industry standards. Among them was J-Band®, AMI’s void-reducing asphalt membrane (VRAM), applied at the track’s paving joints to enhance durability and extend pavement life. Today, VRAM has been applied in 27 states and counting as a solution to longitudinal joint failure. 

Additionally, AMIGUARD™ rapid penetrating emulsion (RPE) was applied after paving in the fall of 2004 to reduce asphalt mix permeability, ensuring long-term integrity by penetrating and filling air voids. AMI also developed joint adhesives that were applied to reinforce paving joint compliance, an approach that has significantly contributed to the longevity of the racing surface. 

Noticeable cracks did not appear until 2016, when HRG partnered with IMS to determine the best repair strategy. Teams manually filled cracks with specially formulated emulsion, continuing a preservation effort that remains integral to track maintenance today. 

The pavement of a racetrack differs significantly from standard asphalt projects. Both INDYCAR and NASCAR require exceptional smoothness and friction levels, but NASCAR presents additional challenges at the IMS due to heavier vehicles and higher tire pressures. Densely compacted surfaces and precision paving techniques, especially in the turns, are critical to performance and safety. 

Over the past 20 years, pavement preservation techniques have continued to evolve alongside IMS. With an increasing number of events and races placing greater stress on the pavement surface, maintenance schedules have become more complex. Yet HC+M companies remain dedicated to ensuring the track meets the highest standards. 

The Heritage Group family of companies’ involvement at IMS extends far beyond the repaving. Milestone and HRG lead routine smoothness and friction testing, develop real-time pavement preservation strategies and perform targeted bump grinding to maintain optimal track conditions. Their trusted partnership with IMS has also resulted in additional projects, including a rehabilitation of the 2.4-mile road course in 2013, paving of internal lots and ongoing roadway improvements. 

“From my perspective, there’s a long history of our relationship with the IMS, and it’s imperative to make sure it is preserved and passed on to those that follow us to maintain that relationship,” said Milestone Vice President and Area Manager Scott Cornelius. 

From pioneering innovations to a steadfast commitment to excellence, HC+M companies have played an integral role in shaping both the future and legacy of racing. Two decades after its last repaving, the IMS track remains an enduring testament to craftsmanship, collaboration and the passion for precision – where history is not just made but paved.