Churchill Downs Incorporated Thursday announced a renovation project that will transform the historic racetrack in time for the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby in 2024.
The Paddock Project, estimated to cost between $185-$200 million, is the final phase of a previously announced three-year capital investment plan.
“This is one of the most significant construction projects in the history of Churchill Downs Racetrack because it significantly impacts what we consider to be the heart of the property,” said CDI CEO Bill Carstanjen in a statement. “We took great care to ensure this is designed in a way that would transform Churchill Downs while enhancing our ability to deliver on what our fans hope for and expect from us for generations to come.”
The Paddock Project is planned to upgrade the experience for most visitors at Churchill Downs, enhancing visibility of the Twin Spires, enhancing circulation paths, and updating the audio-visual experience, ticket products, and amenities. The current paddock configuration blocks views of the Twin Spires from the entrance gate and restricts access from the clubhouse to the grandstand.
Guest spaces will increase from 5,000 to 12,000 square feet inside the paddock, and club spaces will be added for exclusive equine-focused experiences. Premium seating is expected to create 3,612 new reserved seats and room for 3,250 standing-room-only tickets. The new seating will include dining tables, rail boxes, custom chef tables, cocktail service, reserved racetrack viewing areas, and access to private amenities.
The Paddock Project also will update existing ticket inventory and improve views for front-side guests with the addition of elevated viewing platforms. It follows the $44.5 million Homestretch Club, which will debut this year during Kentucky Derby Week, and the $89.2 million Turn 1 Experience, slated to open for the 2023 Kentucky Derby.
Construction for the Paddock Project will start after the 2022 Churchill Downs Spring Meet concludes on July 4. The Kentucky Derby takes place May 7.
