Austin's F1 track takes shape

TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) - Construction at the Circuit of the Americas racetrack is full speed ahead in Southeast Travis County. 

On any given day, there are about 400 workers on site. And they are on schedule to complete the project by the first Formula One race on Nov. 18.

Framework for major structures -- such as grandstands, the pit and paddock area -- is going up along the front straightway. The grandstands will hold about 13,000 fans.

"Major shape will take place, and you'll really begin to see that structure," said Circuit of the Americas spokesman Jeff Hahn. "That, plus other buildings, will start to go vertical. Right now, we're at a rapid change."

Construction resumed after a three-week delay in November 2011 while Circuit of the Americas officials settled their finances with F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone. 

Recent rain in Central Texas has not derailed their plans, either.

"The rain is welcomed, to be honest with you," said Hahn. "It keeps the dust down and makes the work environment a little more pleasant for the crews."

The track itself will be the last thing to be completed.

"So much of the heavy lifting and major earthworks are already done up to this point," added Hahn. "Now, I feel like we're on the downhill run."

Circuit of the Americas is still working with Travis County to expand the roads around the facility to accommodate the large crowds. Track officials anticipate 120,000 fans or more on race day.

"We'll have different kinds of entertainment and afterparties to keep fans [at the track] for a while," said Hahn.  "So, there's not an enormous surge of traffic on to the roads."

Race officials are working on ticket prices, but they expect a three-day pass to be comparable to those at the Austin City Limits Music Festival. 

Race day tickets will range from about $100 to $5,000. You can register on the Circuit of the Americas site for more information.