Students to help create landscape designs for Austin Formula 1 track

Landscape architecture students at Texas A&M could begin work with professional landscape designers as early as Fall 2011 in the construction phase of [Circuit of the Americas] (http://www.circuitoftheamericas.com/) , a $400 million, 1,100 acre motor sports race track, concert venue and conference center in Austin.

"This project provides a unique opportunity to mutually support our respective visions and missions," said Jorge Vanegas, dean of the College of Architecture. "Possible projects and studies at the facility can address any topic within the architecture, landscape architecture and urban planning, construction science or visualization knowledge domains."

“With Circuit of the Americas we are building a small city," said Tavo Hellmund, managing partner of Full Throttle Productions, L.P. and chairman of Formula 1 United States Grand Prix. "It offers an incredible opportunity for students in a variety of disciplines to put their classroom lessons to work building what will be a premier business and entertainment destination. At the same time, we benefit from the fresh perspective, creativity and the enthusiasm they bring."

The track’s master plan features a variety of permanent structures designed for business, education, entertainment and race use. In addition to being the North American home for Formula 1 racing, the track has signed a 10 year contract to bring MotoGP class Grand Prix motorcycle racing to Texas.

The facility’s signature element will be a 3.4-mile circuit track with capacity for 120,000 fans. Other support buildings will include a medical trauma and care training facility, 14 executive meeting suites, a conference center and a banquet hall as well as an expansive outdoor live music space. Future proposed amenities include a driving/riding experience, a motorsports driving club, kart track, grand plaza event center and tower and a trackside recreational vehicle park.

St. Edward’s University, Huston-Tillotson University, both in Austin, and neighboring Del Valle Independent School District will also be working with Circuit of the Americas during its construction in partnership programs linking classroom learning to practical application work.