As Hurricane Milton approaches, Atlanta Motor Speedway (AMS) is stepping up to provide a safe haven for evacuees. The speedway is partnering with the Henry County Emergency Management Agency to offer dry camping spots to those fleeing the path of the storm, reports Fox5 Atlanta. Evacuees can access the camping areas at no cost and will also have complimentary use of shower facilities nearby.
The venue has a history of acting as a refuge during such natural disasters, having previously offered shelter during several hurricanes over the past years. According to 11Alive, AMS Executive Vice President and General Manager Brandon Hutchinson said that anyone in Milton's path looking for a place to stay should feel welcomed at AMS. He also highlighted the continuous efforts to support communities affected whenever storms hit the southeast region.
For those desiring additional amenities, such as water, power, and sewer hook-ups, a limited number of spaces are offered at a rate of $35 per night. Travelers arriving at AMS can find entrances "H" and "E" to lead them to their respective campsites, with full directions available on the speedway's website or at the on-site ticket office or gift store.
Georgia's response to the evacuation is not just limited to AMS. The state has opened several shelters across various counties, providing necessary relief for those displaced by the hurricane. According to Fox5 Atlanta, emergency managers have announced shelters at locations like Maynard Baptist in Monroe County and Central Georgia Technical College in Houston County. These are part of a broader effort to support those needing to quickly find shelter as the hurricane bears down.
Beyond the emergency shelters, many of the Georgia State Parks are also receiving visitors affected by the hurricane. However, due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and sustained damage at certain locations, some parks such as Brazell's Creek Golf Course and Elijah Clark State Park remain closed. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources encourages evacuees to ensure they make reservations at parks distanced from impacted areas, as to not place undue strain on community resources already stretched thin by prior events.
