LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Churchill Downs on Wednesday announced a massive transformation project for its Paddock area that's set to debut for the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby.
What You Need To Know
- Churchill Downs unveiled its new Paddock Project on Wednesday
- The multi-million dollar redevelopment will increase capacity and improve the visitor experience for Derby fans
- It'll create over 3,600 premium reserved seats and 3,250 new standing-room-only tickets
- The new Paddock is set to open for the 150th Kentucky Derby in 2024
The up-to $200 million "Paddock Project" is the final phase of a three-year investment plan by the racetrack aimed at improving the Derby experience for fans, Churchill Downs said in a news release.
The new design boosts guest space in the Paddock to 12,000 square feet compared to the existing 5,000 square feet. It'll also enhance the iconic Twin Spires' visibility, improve guest circulation and update the current audio-visual experience.
"This project will transform the existing Paddock area in a manner that will enhance the experience for nearly every guest who enters the gates of the historic racetrack," the news release said.
In addition to bumping Paddock capacity to 2,400 people, the redevelopment will create over 3,600 premium reserved seats and 3,250 new standing-room-only tickets. Premium club seating, rail boxes, custom Chef's tables, cocktail service and "unprecedented Paddock views" are also on deck.
“This is one of the most significant construction projects in the history of Churchill Downs Racetrack because it significantly impacts what we consider to be the heart of the property,” said Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Inc. “We took great care to ensure this is designed in a way that would transform Churchill Downs while enhancing our ability to deliver on what our fans hope for and expect from us for generations to come.”
The Paddock Project will also update existing ticket inventory and improve Paddock views for front-side guests with the addition of elevated viewing platforms.
The investment will follow the $44.5 million Homestretch Club project debuting this year, and the $89.2 million Turn 1 Experience set to open for the Kentucky Derby in 2023. Construction on the Paddock Project will begin after the 2022 Churchill Downs Spring Meet and is scheduled to accommodate the Racetrack’s live race dates with minimal disruption.