Kentucky: Churchill Downs unveils plans to open Owensboro Racing & Gaming in 2025

Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has announced plans to open gambling facility Owensboro Racing & Gaming in the first quarter of 2025. The property, located in eastern Daviess County, will feature 600 state-of-the-art historical racing machines (HRMs), a retail sportsbook, simulcast wagering, and food and beverage options.

This venture marks CDI's seventh historical horse racing entertainment venue in Kentucky and will be situated on approximately 20 acres at the corner of U.S. 60 and Wrights Landing Road. The property will operate as an annex of Ellis Park Racing & Gaming and will support purse funding for Ellis Park’s traditional summer racing meet.

"The projected spend for the development of Owensboro Racing & Gaming is $10 million," stated CDI. The facility is estimated to generate $125 million in annual regional economic impact, with over 200 construction jobs and 150 permanent jobs expected to be created.

"We are proud to announce this investment in the Kentucky horse racing industry as we celebrate 150 years of the Kentucky Derby," said Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI.

"In addition to delivering a premier gaming and entertainment experience to Daviess County, this project will build on the success of Ellis Park’s racing product and further contribute to a healthy and sustainable horse racing circuit in Kentucky."

Approved in January 2023, CDI's development plan for the 71,500-square-foot property includes a gaming floor with a center bar and a sports bar. A designated smoking section will be situated on the west side of the building, separated from the main area by a vestibule. The building will also feature automatic fire sprinklers and alarm systems.

Parking will accommodate 624 spaces, with 522 dedicated to customers. Sosh Architects of Atlantic City designed the blueprints, while Calhoun Construction of Louisville is listed as the general contractor for the project. The blueprints also show room for a potential 150×224 future expansion on the land’s southeast corner.