Coral Springs residents unite to preserve the longstanding RC track at Richard D Petrillo Park for future generations
Coral Springs, Florida – The Coral Springs community is rallying to save the long-standing radio-controlled (RC) car track at Richard D Petrillo Park, a fixture of local recreation and education for over three decades. Enthusiasts, families, and hobbyists have come together to petition the city, seeking to ensure the track remains a permanent part of the park amid concerns that it could be removed.
The RC track, located at 10050 Northwest 11th Manor, was established in the early 1990s and has served as a hub for car enthusiasts ever since. It supports both off-road and on-road RC vehicles, making it one of the few tracks in the region accommodating multiple racing styles. The track has historically hosted weekend practice sessions, organized competitions, and sanctioned races through national racing organizations, drawing participants of all ages from Coral Springs and nearby communities.
“It’s a recreational spot for RC enthusiasts,” said Inshan Singh, a Coral Springs resident and owner of MAD Hobbies in Tamarac, who spearheaded the petition. “We have two types of cars that we race there, off-road and on-road, and it’s one of the few tracks that supports both.” Singh added that the facility has been a crucial gathering place where people not only enjoy the sport but also connect, learn, and build friendships.
The track has been closed for several months, sparking concern among supporters. According to the City of Coral Springs, the agreement with the RC Car Organization expired in 2011, and the structure currently on site has been deemed unsafe. City officials say the Building Department and Code Enforcement are working with the organization to restore the facility and establish an updated agreement for continued use.
“If we couldn’t get the building codes up to spec, they might take back over the park and it won’t be a track anymore,” Singh explained, underscoring the importance of city cooperation in preserving the site. He warned that losing the track would leave a significant gap in the local RC community, as similar facilities are scarce in the region.
Beyond its recreational appeal, the track has educational value, particularly for younger participants. Singh highlighted how RC vehicles teach mechanical and electronic skills, fostering curiosity and engagement with STEM subjects. “These cars are pretty advanced in terms of electronics and mechanics,” he said. “It teaches kids mechanical skills and introduces them to STEM fields. It kind of piques their curiosity.”
Singh, who has been a frequent user of the track since moving to Coral Springs in 2017, noted that his family, including his young daughters and nephew, regularly participate in track activities. The track has not only provided entertainment but also a platform for learning and mentoring the next generation of hobbyists and engineers.
To raise awareness and secure the track’s future, Singh launched a petition calling on the City of Coral Springs to preserve the RC track as a permanent amenity at Petrillo Park. He also addressed the matter at a recent city commission meeting, where city officials appeared receptive to the community’s concerns. The petition had already gathered 800 signatures by Monday afternoon, exceeding Singh’s initial goal, with support continuing to grow.
“It sounded like they’re willing to have it reopened,” Singh said. Parks and Recreation staff have since reached out and are collaborating with track management to make that possible. While no official signature threshold has been set, the overwhelming community response demonstrates strong public support for maintaining the track.
For residents of Coral Springs, the RC track represents more than just a hobby—it is a place for learning, bonding, and shared experiences. With the petition gaining momentum and city officials showing interest in preserving the site, supporters are hopeful that the track at Richard D Petrillo Park will continue to serve generations of enthusiasts for years to come, keeping alive a unique and cherished corner of the community.
The outcome of the ongoing discussions between the city and the RC Car Organization will likely shape the future of the track, but one thing is clear: the Coral Springs community is united in ensuring that this longstanding recreational and educational facility remains a fixture in the city.
