CDI Plans to Open Owensboro Racing & Gaming Early in 2025

Churchill Downs’ parent company, Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI), announced Wednesday plans regarding its newest historical racing machines (HRMs) entertainment venue. The new HRMs entertainment outlet, Owensboro Racing & Gaming, would represent the company’s seventh such location in Kentucky. Owensboro Racing & Gaming will be located in eastern Daviess County and will use approximately 20 acres of land.

The entertainment venue would be positioned conveniently on the corner of US Highway 60 and Wrights Landing Road, located east of Owensboro and providing easy access to local and out-of-state visitors. CDI confirmed that the price tag of Owensboro Racing & Gaming is set at $100 million. The company confirmed that the new HMRs entertainment outlet is expected to welcome its first visitors early in 2025. Still, for the moment, the company hasn’t confirmed a solid date for the opening of the new venue.

According to CDI, the new project will help create approximately 200 temporary construction jobs. Once finished, Owensboro Racing & Gaming is expected to create an estimated 150 permanent jobs, generating some $125 million in annual regional economic impact.

Visitors to Owensboro Racing & Gaming can expect 600 state-of-the-art historical racing machines, as well as simulcast wagering and a retail sportsbook. The brand-new entertainment venue is expected to offer a wide range of beverage and food options as well.

The Venue Helps Expand CDI’s Foothold in Kentucky

The details about Owensboro Racing & Gaming come on the heels of an important agreement announced by CDI. Earlier this month, the company confirmed it inked a strategic partnership with SAP America, a leading provider of enterprise application software across the globe. Under the terms of the multi-year agreement, CDI designated SAP America as its official technology partner, powering the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs Racetrack and Kentucky Oaks.

“We are proud to announce this investment in the Kentucky horse racing industry as we celebrate 150 years of the Kentucky Derby.“

Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI

Bill Carstanjen, CDI’s CEO, revealed that the company is excited to confirm the development of Owensboro Racing & Gaming. “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,” he explained in conclusion.

According to CDI, the new entertainment venue in Daviess County will operate as an annex of Ellis Park Racing & Gaming. The venue will also help raise funds for the traditional summer racing meet at Ellis Park.