CEDAR KNOLLS, N.J. -- Omland Engineering Associates, LLC (OEA) is excited to announce its participation in designing the Grand Prix of America at Port Imperial race course in Weehawken and West New York, New Jersey. The unveiling of this new course will coincide with the inaugural race scheduled for June of 2013.

Omland has been collaborating with German engineering group Tilke GmgH to design the race course and the areas surrounding the track. Part of Omland’s role was to provide detailed surveying and mapping of the track and adjacent areas. The task of surveying proved particularly crucial to the project due to the low ground clearance of Formula One cars. For areas surrounding the course, an ongoing challenge for Omland has been creating smooth transitions with minimal disruption to intersecting streets, sidewalks, parks, utilities, and traffic controls. After design is complete, Omland will be applying for the major permits and approvals for the project.

This exciting 3.2-mile course will run on existing public streets starting at the Weehawken Ferry Terminal. The course climbs up, and travels along the edge of the Palisades, 160 feet above the Hudson River, all with New York City as its backdrop. On the straightaways between a hairpin and several 90-degree turns, drivers are expected to reach speeds of nearly 200 miles per hour.

“The design challenges for a race course that runs on existing roads in a dense urban area are much more complex compared to those in a rural area, but the processes of discovering solutions are much more rewarding. It’s been a privilege to work closely with the race promoters to design a first-class course that will be desirable to spectators”, says Geoff Lanza, Vice President at Omland Engineering.

“We’re honored to welcome Omland Engineering Associates to the Grand Prix of America at Port Imperial family,” said race promoter Leo Hindery. “Their technical know-how will ensure this course is among the best in the world, providing a safe, fun and entertaining environment for fans and racers in the midst of an incredibly urban landscape.”

As New Jersey’s first ever Formula One event, the race is expected to draw more than 100,000 people. Beginning in June of 2013, the race will be held annually for the next ten years.