Organizers for the future Formula One United States Grand Prix have hired HKS Inc. to collaborate on designs for its planned Austin racing complex. HKS, which designed the Cowboys' mega stadium in Dallas, joins architectural firm Tilke GmbH in drawing plans for the facility. The $250 million track and multi-use stadium is expected to break ground next month and be ready in time for races beginning in 2012.

“Never before has a cast been assembled in motorsports history that has the combined wealth of experience and knowledge that HKS and Tilke bring to this project,” said Tavo Hellmund, chairman of the Formula One United States Grand Prix. “Having industry leaders in sports facility architecture and design raises the bar for future motorsports facilities in this country and around the world. We are pleased that a collaboration of this calibre will take place in Texas.

Dallas-based HKS has also designed such projects as Rio de Janeiro’s Estadio Maracana, Acapulco's Mextenis and Torreon Mexico's Estadio Corona, as well as baseball, soccer and collegiate facilities in the United States. The 3.4-mile Austin track will combine 133 feet of elevation change and 20 turns. The circuit’s master plan also features additional visitor attractions including a proposed driving and riding experience, seminar space, motorsports driving club, kart track and welcome center.