Decatur Edges Closer to Hosting Big Racino Project

A plan to build a massive horse racing track and casino in Decatur is picking up steam following recent approval in the Illinois Senate. The proposal, which merges a harness racing track with a complete gaming venue, might transform the area’s entertainment scene and give a big lift to the local economy.

Privately Funded Racino Near Route 36 Could Bring $27 Million in Annual Revenue to Decatur

The proposed “racino” project would be built close to Route 36 and Wyckles Road, opposite the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. City officials have given the site the temporary name Decatur Downs. Backers say it is a private venture, so no money from the state or city would be needed to start building, reported local media outlet Capitol City Now.

Sen. Doris Turner from Springfield says the project will invest $220 million in Macon County. It is expected to bring in about $27 million each year once it is up and running. Turner points out that the bill aims to breathe new life into Illinois’ struggling horse racing industry. It also plans to create new infrastructure across the region. The project includes promises to improve facilities at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. This will allow for training and events all year round.

David Horn, a member of the City Council, mentions that the racino could create around 300 long-term jobs. It is also likely to attract more visitors to Decatur. He notes that people watching the races will stay in nearby hotels and eat at local restaurants. This extra spending will boost the local economy even more.

Proposed Decatur Racino Wins Senate Approval but Faces Local Concerns and Legislative Delay

The blueprint for the planned one-mile harness track features a grandstand, a gaming area with space for up to 900 people, a sports facility, eateries, shops, and accommodations. The bill’s backers say the build would use union workers.

Yet, the venture has sparked debate. Horn admitted some locals feel uneasy about introducing another betting spot to a city that already has about 500 slot machines spread across many places. He noted that people are excited about the possible economic boost, but some are concerned about the social impact of more gambling.

State Senator Patrick Joyce, who helped write the bill, said it is part of a bigger effort to bring back an industry that once did well but has lost ground to other states. He thinks projects like the Decatur racino could help Illinois get back on top in horse racing and breeding.

The bill passed the Senate with a strong 49–8 vote, but it cannot move forward yet. The Illinois House ended its session without looking at the bill, so any decision will have to wait until January, when lawmakers meet again, unless they call a special session. If it gets the green light, the Decatur Downs racino might start a new era for the local economy and the state’s long-standing racing tradition.