Churchill Downs debuted the new Paddock Gate main entrance ahead of the '18 Kentucky Derbygetty images
Churchill Downs Inc. CEO Bill Carstanjen said that "no big-ticket project is on the books at the track" ahead of the '19 Kentucky Derby, according to Marty Finley of the LOUISVILLE BUSINESS FIRST. Carstanjen said that he "does not envision any major capital projects" on par with the recent suites expansion or new entrance and parking reorganization, the second phase of which will be "completed in time" for the Breeders' Cup on Nov. 2-3. Carstanjen "did say a few smaller projects will improve" the track and "enhance the Derby" but did not offer details. Churchill Downs "debuted" the Starting Gate Suites and the new Paddock Gate main entrance and pedestrian plaza ahead of the '18 Kentucky Derby. The second phase is "primarily focused on parking, tree planting and retention features" along the track's backside. By the end of '18, CDI's "capital investments" at the track will have grown to more than $190M in the last eight years. In addition to the racetrack projects, CDI is "putting the finishing touches" on the $65M Derby City Gaming "historical-race-wagering facility that is slated to open" in September (BIZJOURNALS.com, 8/3).
