While the second leg of the Triple Crown will need a new home while the Pimlico receives its upgrades, Marylanders don’t have to fear losing their beloved race, as the nearby Laurel Park will take over in its stead during renovations.
Not only are horseplayers in Maryland getting essentially a brand new track, those that enjoy MD sports betting might have a new retail sportsbook to patronize as well, as some plans for the Pimlico include a new brick-and-mortar location for gambling.
$400 Million Allocated for the Renovation of the Pimlico Race Course
Renovations and a potential new retail sportsbook aren’t the only changes that are coming to the Maryland gaming landscape, though. Along with the $400 million allocated to improving the historic Pimlico, the state of Maryland will also be giving its guidance to the track, as it has acquired the home of the Preakness Stakes from its previous owner, the Stronach Group.
These renovations will be the first major mode of operation for Maryland regarding the Pimlico, and the state has grand plans for its beloved track, borne from the brains of the General Assembly and the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority.
The new plans for the Pimlico also include visions for a groundbreaking clubhouse, stables for up to 700 horses at a time, a brand new observation tower for spectators, an event space for reserved gatherings, a hotel for traveling patrons, and a massive garage that will hold over 2000 vehicles. These are the major planned additions along with the potential new retail sportsbook. The actual mile-long track is slated to be rotated and repaired.
Pimlico Renovations Could Capitalize on Surge of Horse Racing Interest
These renovations were long overdue according to regular visitors of the historic Pimlico. Originally opened in the late 19th century, the track has undergone several renovations, but none of which were to the scale of these new plans. Not only will this construction revitalize a historical landmark burdened by old and decrepit facilities, it could also capitalize on the recent surge in interest in MD horse betting.
This year, the Kentucky Derby broke several records in terms of betting, as did the overall Derby Week. It makes perfect sense why the state of Maryland might want to rejuvenate its famed Pimlico and bring glory back to the Preakness Stakes in hopes of maximizing its appeal to potential new horseplayers.
This renovation should not only better the experience at Preakness and the Pimlico’s existing events, but also open up new opportunities for the venue down the road. According to Engineering News-Record, the renovated Pimlico hopes to host 160 days worth of events every single year.
The Pimlico Race Course was in dire need of renovation, especially after 2019 saw the closure of thousands of grandstand seats at the track. This $400 million planned rebuild will do a lot more than just open up new seats, and it is going to be one of the most intriguing developments to happen to the course in its history.
