LOUISVILLE, Ky. — After 12 horses died at the track, Churchill Downs will suspend racing operations starting next week.

Jennifer Welch has been with Derby City Pizza for eight years. 

“It’s really close. It’s family oriented,” she said. “It’s not just like a staff you’re coming in here and working for a staff. You’re working for a family.”

She’s dedicated to serving her community. 

“We have a lot of loyal regulars who come in and we love them all,” Welch said. “They’re great.”

Churchill Downs announced they will suspend racing operations to thoroughly examine safety measures after injuries have resulted in 12 equine fatalities.

“It is going to be a big shock,” Welch said. “I grew up here, so it’s always the track, going over there, just the history of it.”

Derby City Pizza said they will be impacted by the untimely end of the spring race season.

“Usually with Churchill Downs, we do have a lot of revenue that comes over here with Churchill Downs, so that will be a little hit for us with them shut down,” Welch said. 

The restaurant is located less than a mile from the track and they make deliveries to the backside daily.

Although businesses are expecting a dip, their customers don’t plan on going elsewhere.

“Oh, it’s awesome,” said Derby City Pizza customer Kenneth Walker. “It’s a great gathering place for people to get together and socialize and have a nice time.”

Welch and her customers believe they will make it through this surprise. 

“Hopefully we won’t have too much of a revenue issue coming off with them shutting down, but hopefully everything stays about the same,” said Welch. 

She is hopeful for Churchill Downs’ safe recovery.