I
n Metro Detroit, there’s nothing quite
like M1 Concourse. The 87-acre
Pontiac property sits on a historic site
critical to Detroit’s automobile history. It’s
been home to a series of auto manufactur-
ing facilities for more than 100 years; and
in 1905, a large portion of
the property was used by the
Rapid Motor Company to pro-
duce municipal vehicles.
Then, in 1908, Rapid Motor
Company was combined with
Reliance Motor Truck and
Crescent Motors to become
General Motors Truck Co. The site was
owned by General Motors for decades and
underwent several changes before becom-
ing today’s venue.
Still, whether you’re an auto enthusiast
or simply looking for a unique event venue,
M1 Concourse can accommodate anything
from weddings to bar and bat mitzvahs and
beyond.
EVENT OPPORTUNITIES
While the greater M1 Concourse site itself
can hold up to 20,000 individuals, Dave
Sherman, vice president of signature shows,
who is one of three upper management
members who are Jewish, says there are sev-
eral areas that can be used for events.
First is the racetrack itself, which is 1.5
miles long and includes 11 turns.
“The M1 Circuit offers an opportunity
to do anything that you would consider fun
with cars,
” Sherman, 53, of Clarkston, says.
“This could be somebody jumping into a
car with a professional driver, or it could be
a private practice day where an enthusiast
works with a professional driving instructor
teaching you how to drive a car.
”
Next is the ballroom, which is the more
traditional event choice. This can be used
for Jewish lifecycle events like engagement
parties, anniversaries and more. “It’s a flex-
ible space,
” Sherman says of the ballroom.
“The thing that makes it unique is that
it has an automotive theme between the
design, artwork and architecture.
”
Located directly on the pit lane, Sherman
calls it a perfect location for families of auto
enthusiasts or those looking for a uniquely
Michigan celebration experience. “If you
have a son or daughter who loves cars, here
would be an opportunity to do something
themed and special for your loved ones to
celebrate a significant event,
” he says.
For a seated dinner reception, the ball-
room can accommodate about 300 guests.
COURTESY OF M1CONCOURSE
Dave
Sherman
A Venue
for
Gearheads
ASHLEY ZLATOPOLSKY
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
M1 Concourse offers more
than 100 years of auto history
for the car enthusiast.
A view of the 1.5-mile
racetrack, which includes
11 turns.
The ballroom is located
on the pit lane and
has indoor and
outdoor spaces.
50 | APRIL 27 • 2023