High Winds Wreak Havoc on Lexus Velodrome

Major Damage

The Lexus Velodrome in Detroit has been used for a number of reasons over the years, including, most recently, as an indoor cycling track and fitness studio. The giant Lexus billboard is currently owned and operated by a nonprofit called the Detroit Fitness Foundation, but it was recently damaged severely by high winds, according to the Detroit Free Press.

Photos: Lexus

Multiple Failures

While the Velodrome managed to hold up to some pretty high winds early on, when the power went out and a backup generator failed, it spelled doom for the giant structure. The Velodrome's roof then collapsed and the dome was severely damaged in the process, suffering punctures from the metal spine of the facility.

Photo: Kirthman F. Dozier for the Detroit Free Press

Help Coming

"Help is on the way," said Dale Hughes, executive director of the Detroit Fitness Foundation. "Our first priority is to secure the facility, which will be complete today (Monday). Next, we will have the experts in to determine how we fix the dome and then move forward."

Photos: Lexus

Familiar Sight

The Lexus Velodrome has been a familiar sight for folks living in or traveling around Detroit since it opened in 2018. The roughly $5 million dollar project was financed by an anonymous donor who is from the Metro Detroit area and fell in love with cycling during his many travels.

Photos: Lexus

Cycling Mecca

The Velodrome spans a total of 64,000 square feet and currently contains a 166-meter wooden banked track, concession stand, and seating for those that want to simply watch all the action unfold. Just last month, it played host for the 2021 USA Cycling Madison Track National Championships.

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the damage to the Lexus Velodrome right here at ClubLexus.com.

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