RedBud returns for the 52nd year amid ongoing construction in Buchanan

BUCHANAN, Mich. -- One of the biggest motocross events in the country is revving up for another high-energy weekend in Buchanan.

Redbud is back for their 52nd year, bringing thousands of fans and riders from all over the world.

But with construction happening in Buchanan, there may be obstacles beyond the track.

The city and RedBud organizers have been working together for months to make sure things run smoothly ahead of race weekend.

Buchanan’s City Manager Tony McGhee says he hopes the RedBud crowd will help bring in some extra foot traffic to small businesses, especially with all the construction happening downtown.

"We've been working with the people who operate the track out there, coordinating directions and signage with the construction we have going on just to make sure everything's accessible for their visitors," McGhee said.

To help people get around, the city has mapped out a few alternate routes.

If you're traveling from South Bend, hop on US-31, take Exit 7 to Walton Road, and you’ll be back on RedBud Rail, North of all the detours.

Organizers say to avoid don’t turning onto RedBud Trail directly from Highway 12 because it will take you to all the construction.

If you’re coming from Chicago or out East, take Bakertown Road off Highway 12.

RedBud Co-Owner Amy Ritchie doesn't believe the construction will have a huge impact on attendance.

"I don't think it will affect our crowd. Local people know how to get around it and of course, the people coming from further away. We've had it on social media. We put up four sign boards and message boards yesterday on 12 and 31 that we were able to rent," Ritchie said.

Started by the Ritchie family in the 1970s, RedBud has grown into a must-see stop for motocross fans featuring everything from pro races to family-friendly fun.

Ritchie says seeing her family legacy be loved by so many over the years makes it all worthwhile.

"The comforting part is we're here at home and this is our happy place, and it comes together well. And we love the people, and a lot of them, this is a lifetime tradition for them. We have third and fourth generation racers, and they'll be here watching the pros too. It's a big event, but kind of like a family atmosphere. I think friends and family like your neighborhood, but it's big," Ritchie said.

For more information on the weekend race, click here.