LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A big sign that Kentucky Derby 150 is getting closer is the changing of the sign below the Twin Spires at Churchill Downs.
Track maintenance workers used a lift on Tuesday morning to reach to the rafters of the grandstand to change the sign to read 1875 to 2024. Also changing the latest Derby count from 149 to 150.
"This year it's extra special being that 150 milestone. You only go through it once. I mean, you just do," said Churchill Downs spokesperson Darren Rogers.
Crews change the sign at Churchill Downs from "2023" to "2024." (WDRB image from March 19, 2024)
There are many changes being made to the racetrack that is so familiar to many horse racing fans. A paddock renovation project that has taken $200 million and years of planning is close to wrapping up.
Construction crews are on a deadline to finish the Paddock before the Spring Meet begins with the biggest races of the season including the 150th Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks.
"This paddock is arguably going to become the best paddock in the world," said Rogers. "I think it puts the Twin Spires back in focus."
WDRB drone image shows the paddock change at Churchill Downs ahead of Kentucky Derby 150. (WDRB image, March 19, 2024)
The transformation is almost complete, according to Chris Galopin, director of construction at the track.
"It's a massive undertaking. I couldn't put into words how big of a challenge and undertaking this was," he said.
The view has changed for racing fans that will walk through the front gates. The endless bricks broken up by the area in the center where horses would saddle up and get ready for the Derby is gone.
Visitors will now walk into a paddock with a horseshoe shaped area that surrounds the stalls where Kentucky Derby connections will prepare for the race. Observation decks will allow people to look down where the horses will be paraded on their way to the track.
"It's really spectacular. It really is," Rogers said.
IMAGES | Paddock project in final stretch at Churchill Downs
The $200 million project will be done in time for Kentucky Derby 150 on May 4, 2024.
Construction on the $200 million Paddock renovation is nearing completion at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. (WDRB Image by Darby Beane) March 19, 2024
The plan for the project walked a delicate line mixing history from the 1800s with modern touches and technologies.
"Any time you see us do something, we incorporate that history because we know how important it is," Rogers explained.
Exclusive areas like the new Club SI and the Paddock Club are coming to life with upscale amenities. The project is expected to be turned over to Churchill Downs in the coming weeks for finishing touches.
WDRB drone image shows the sign change at Churchill Downs ahead of Kentucky Derby 150. (WDRB image, March 19, 2024)
The Paddock area is scheduled to be complete by Opening Day, which is April 27. Kentucky Oaks is Friday, May 3, and Kentucky Derby 150 is Saturday, May 4.
More coverage of Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby 150:
- IMAGES | Brand new $200 million paddock project taking shape at Churchill Downs ahead of Kentucky Derby 150
- 'Adorned in Roses' | Woodford Reserve unveils Kentucky Derby 150 bottle
- Kentucky Derby trophy presented to Strike the Gold owner in 1991 fetches $167,000 at auction
- Churchill Downs unveils special trophy for 150th Kentucky Derby
- Can you hear me now? Churchill Downs improving cell service ahead of Kentucky Derby 150
- Churchill Downs releases official Mint Julep glass for 150th Kentucky Derby
- 'Once in a Lifetime' Kentucky Derby package offered by Louisville hotel includes private jet
- And they're off! Tickets on sale for Kentucky Derby 150 and bet on paying for the experience
- Winners selected for Survivors Parade during 150th Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs
- Oaks Lily glass design unveiled 100 days before Kentucky Derby 150
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