Plans for the hotel include 156 rooms and seven stories, and feature track-side suites with private balconiesChurchill Downs Inc
Churchill Downs "plans to invest millions in new stadium seating, a hotel, a historical racing machine and a Millionaires Row renovation," according to Sarah Ladd of the Louisville COURIER JOURNAL. The $300M investment project, set to begin in December and be completed by the end of '21, is "waiting for final approval by the Kentucky Tourism Development Incentive Act." Millionaires Row 6 will "get a new upgrade in time for the 146th Kentucky Derby." Meanwhile, the planned hotel will have 156 rooms and seven stories and "feature track-side suites, all of which will offer private balconies and covered panoramic views of the entire track." The hotel will also have a "penthouse banquet room, a 27,000 square-foot ballroom and meeting rooms for additional meeting and event space for Kentucky Derby guests." New permanent seating will be "installed at the first turn of the track with a 4,700 capacity to replace the 3,300 temporary seats overlooking the racetrack now." The whole project is "estimated to bring 5,500 new seats for the Oaks and Derby as well as providing 'upgraded amenities'" (Louisville COURIER JOURNAL, 10/31).
LIVING IN LUXURY: In Louisville, Jason Thomas noted the $11M renovation of Millionaires Row 6 will "offer upscale guest offerings and elevated service for up to 350 guests with a prime and picturesque view of the racetrack's finish line." The new culinary experience will "include an exclusive menu, deluxe drink and champagne packages as well as concierge service." The renovated space will "feature private dining rooms, lounge seating, window dining and a speakeasy bourbon room" (BIZJOURNALS.com, 10/30).
