ARRIVE EARLY FOR TRUCK RACE

Shout it from the highest overpass: Get there early!

A crowd of about 50,000 is expected for Saturday night’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

The race starts at 6:30 p.m., and between many first-time attendees and construction taking place on Interstate 15 between downtown and the speedway, it could get a little wild on the road.

So here are some tips that you need to share with anyone you know who is going to the race:
   
* Gates will open at 3 p.m.
(Note from Heavy Pedal: One gate will open at noon for NASCAR junkies, but don’t be an idiot and start drinking before 5 p.m.)

* If driving from Summerlin, Centennial Hills and other areas west and north of the city, use the 215 Beltway to I-15 North.

* If coming from Henderson or areas east of the valley, use Nellis Boulevard to Las Vegas Boulevard North.

* If coming from the Strip or downtown, use I-15.

* If traveling north on U.S. 95, be reminded that there is no exit onto Interstate 15 northbound; take Nellis Boulevard to Las Vegas Boulevard.

* The speedway also is encouraging fans to use Regional Transportation Commission buses. Buses will depart the Downtown Transportation Center to a stop at Craig Road and Nellis Boulevard. Fans then can transfer to a dedicated bus to the speedway.

* For more info:
www.i15project.com
www.rtcsouthernnevada.com/transit/nascar_truck.cfm