Churchill Downs Incorporated has officially opened the new Downtown historic racing machine (HRM), Derby City Gaming, in Kentucky. The venue costs $90.0m ($90.0m/PS71.5m/EUR83.4m).
This facility is CDI’s 6th in Bluegrass State and has 500 HRMs. It features a Kentucky Derby-themed design. CDI’s venue features 130 parking spots, three food and drink amenities and a 3D exterior video board.
CDI stated that the project created 400 construction jobs, and over 150 permanent positions at the venue. Over $14.0m was invested in subcontracting firms owned by women, minorities and veterans.
Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI said: “This is a project of which I am particularly proud. It will not only have a positive impact on the Kentucky horse industry but also bring new life to downtown. This in turn should stimulate investment.”
DCG Downtown is a much-needed entertainment venue for locals, Bourbon Tourists, Convention Attendees and our Visitors. The decision to invest in downtown Louisville went beyond a simple financial one. “It is an investment into the spirit, culture, and future of our City.”
Andy Beshear – Kentucky’s Governor – also gave the project high praise. The venue, he said, fits with Kentucky’s rich racing history.
Beshear stated, “As we all know racing is an important part of both our history and culture.” “Churchill Downs is a place that brings people from all over the world and state together.
They’re not just thinking about where they have been. This company has a laser focus on what they want to achieve. “They’re constantly working to improve to make sure their future, and the future of Kentucky as a whole is brighter than before.”
Kentucky now allows sports betting
Kentucky’s legal online sports betting was opened just a few days before. The state initially launched retail betting on 7 September. Online wagering followed on 27 September.
Bet365, BetMGM and Circa all received online licenses. Kambi also received a licence for service providers, but this is only applicable to retail operations.
Retail licences for racetracks and other satellites facilities have also been granted. Churchill Downs, Derby City Gaming and Ellis Park are all in Louisville. The Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland Run is in Corbin and The Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland Run is in Williamsburg.
The Red Mile, in Lexington and Turfway Park are also approved operators.
Three new gaming and racing facilities were also licensed. The three new facilities are Derby City Gaming, Ellis Park and Sandy’s Gaming and Racing.
