LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Churchill Downs is far from the finish line when it comes to renovations at the historic track in Louisville.
Leaders are exploring the addition of another tunnel from the front side to the infield. The tunnel would make it easier to get guests into a hugely expanded permanent premium seating experience, a structure that could seat 7,000 guests.
Right now, about 800 guests have entered through temporary structures put up in the field.
Churchill has made significant progress on upgrading the seating by the starting gate from 10,000 bleacher seats to 8,500 premium stadium and trackside box seats. That project should be finished in time for the next Kentucky Derby.
But that's not all. For those sitting about 180 feet past the finish line are getting an upgrade too. The Sky Terrace will come down and, over the next three to four years, be replaced by a completely different look along a 500-foot stretch of the track that leads to the recently completed First Turn Club.
Churchill said when all is said and done, premium seating will have increased by 20%.
Beyond Louisville, Churchill Downs Inc. continues to grow itself with nearly 2,000 Horse Racing machines in Virginia set to open for business.
Churchill will also open another racing machine property in Calvert City, Kentucky, with 250 machines by 2026 for $40 million to $50 million.
Related Stories:
- Kentucky Derby 151 tickets now on sale
- Churchill Downs plans $90 million renovation to grandstand seating in time for Kentucky Derby 151
- CRAWFORD | Derbyland: Churchill's transformation reflects Kentucky Derby's evolving identity
- Churchill Downs sets new record for wagering at Spring Meet in Louisville
- Churchill Downs' building boom leads to higher tax value
Copyright 2024 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.
