Construction workers are racing against the clock to put the finishing touches on 23 new luxury suites perched atop the grandstands at Churchill Downs.
The suites are the first ever at the 129-year-old track and are the most visible changes in an ambitious, $121-million renovation.
Even the track’s famous Twin Spires got reinforced structural supports, new interior walls and a fresh coat of paint.
"This is a reinvigoration and a modernization, while maintaining the rich tradition and the architectural integrity that people recognize us for," track President Steve Sexton said.
The first phase of construction started last summer and is scheduled to be finished in time for Churchill’s fall meet. Churchill will soon have 81 suites priced from $68,000 to $97,000 a year, on three- to five-year leases.
The $95 million second phase, to start after the spring-summer session, will include construction of the remainder of the luxury suites, plus a new and expanded Turf Club and a new Skye Terrace, which includes Millionaire’s Row, where the rich and famous mingle on Derby Day.
The track will add simulcast facilities plus more dining facilities, kitchens and a new press box. A large section of the clubhouse section of the track will be removed and rebuilt.
