Huge go-kart facility takes shape in Montville
Montville — With the exterior of a $7 million indoor go-kart facility largely complete, Sachatello Industrial Drive off Route 85 in Oakdale is getting a steady stream of visitors curious about when it might open.
The answer, said Naskart LLC's sales and marketing manager Rachel Hannas, is Dec. 16. The project started last spring.
"They're working nonstop," she said during a recent tour of the facility.
The 110,000-square-foot go-kart area, which is being paired with an 8,000-square-foot trampoline park, will include a high-end bar as well as a cafe with healthy options.
"It's the largest in the world," Hannas said.
A mezzanine above the go-kart area will be a perfect perch for parents to watch the go-kart action that can reach speeds of 40 to 50 mph, Hannas said. The go-karts were manufactured in Tennessee, while the tracks were made in Slovenia.
More than 100 job openings will be available at NasKart, which plays on the popularity of NASCAR racing and will have similar opportunities for banners and sponsorships. The jobs will range from mechanics to restaurant personnel.
Ownership is the same as for nearby Wide World of Indoor Sports, which is one of three such facilities run by the company, the two others being in Rhode Island. Hannas said the pairing will provide visitors a wide range of entertainment options.
"Southeastern Connecticut is a mecca of entertainment," she said, pointing to the nearby casinos, Mystic Seaport, Mystic Aquarium and Dinosaur Place.
Hannas said the facility, owned by Stephen and Sandi Sangermano and Dan Fawcett of Rhode Island, is starting with 76 electric go-karts using two tracks. Riders must be at least 4 feet tall, and prices start at less than $20 for a two-and-a-half-mile lap, she said, and $14 an hour for trampolining.
No arcade or video games will be included.
Hannas said she has been reaching out to local businesses to let them know about opportunities to cross promote. NasKart is expected to attract casino visitors as well as people from all over Rhode Island and Connecticut, Hannas said.
"I was raised in Connecticut," said the Old Lyme native. "To be a part of this entity and its magnitude has been not only overwhelming, but the enthusiasm and support we have received from our community, state and internationally has made me so proud."
The facility will likely be open late, she said, till midnight or 1 a.m. But breathalyzers will be used to make sure there is no unsafe driving, she added.
Corporate parties and outings will be part of the equation, as will birthday parties.
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