I don't stay connected to the NHRA stuff as much as I would like. But if you don't already listen the Brian Lohnes's NHRA Podcast. Brian is the lead announcer and as I am sure most of you know is a crazy drag racing encyclopedia. I believe the NHRA isn't going down the drain and it sure does seem like spectator counts are trending up, sold out at some tracks.
Here is a link to the podcast. I haven't listened to a bunch of them but I do when I have time and think about it, good stuff.
https://nhra-podcast.libsyn.comI do believe they are certainly trying to change the crowd, they have had drag week cars doing exhibition passes, Outlaw 10.5 stuff and radial cars as well.