It’s official: F1 coming to New Jersey

NJ Gov. Chris Christie

NJ Gov. Chris Christie and the Mayors from Weehawken and West New York announced today that F1 will race on a 3.2-mile course with over 150 feet of elevation change on City Streets along the Hudson River overlooking the Manhattan skyline starting in June 2013.

"This is another example of what New Jersey can do when we work together," Christie said. "I can assure the people from Formula One this is going to be one of the wisest decisions you've ever made."

Christie called the economic impact of the event, which is expected to attract over 100,000 visitors, "enormous."

The United States last hosted a Formula One race in 2007 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

A race is also scheduled for November 2012 at the new Circuit of the Americas coming to Austin, Texas.

Track showing the paddock and pit area

SpeedTV F1 personality Steve Matchett was on hand to pump up the race and he compared this race to Monaco as far as the character of the track with elevation change and the waterfront track. He explained the technical nuances of F1 to the crowd gathered, how technically advanced the cars are, and the safety standards that will followed.

F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone was not in attendance, as he is headed to India for this weekend's inaugural Grand Prix in the Asian country.

A lot of questions were asked about permits from people who will try to kill the race based on missed permit processes.

Today's press conference

One question came up about the noise for local residents. Gov. Christie said they will pay for anyone who want to leave for the weekend will be given money to take a vacation.

Christie said "this race is a testimony that NJ has the capacity to support big events like this.

The contract with the FIA and FOM is for this race to run for a period of 10 years.

No public taxpayer money is being used for this project, which reduces an avenue for people who want to kill the race can use. That avenue has been taken away. Even local police, firefighters, and cleanup, etc. will be paid by the race promoter.

All Military members will be admitted to the race for free, another positive aspect put forth.