The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally could officially span 10 days starting in 2010.

Rally Department Director Brenda Vasknetz will appear before the Sturgis City Council on Tuesday evening, Feb. 17, to request additional days for the "official" event.

"This has been discussed several times in the past," Vasknetz said. She explained vendors, visitors, and others have not been aware of events occurring the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday before the rally's official beginning. That was because the rally has been officially advertised as a seven-day event, she added.

Rally events have long been in full swing the Friday before the official Monday start time, according to Vasknetz. Vendors attempt to sell their products, concerts are held at local establishments, and motocross races are held.

"We want to recognize this as a 10-day event," Vasknetz continued. She said vendors should see an increase in sales tax revenue in 2010, and visitors will also benefit.

Vasknetz' request, if granted, means the 2010 rally will start on Friday, Aug. 6 and end Sunday, Aug. 15. That would be the 70th annual event.

The rally has officially lasted seven days for many years. This year's event is set for Aug. 3-9.