Turfway Park on the fast track for expansion in northern Kentucky

A massive $100 million renovation will need to finish quickly at Turfway Park.

The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission approved for the Florence-area racecourse to host live horse racing in December 2020. Owner Churchill Downs Inc. plans to apply for additional live racing from January through March 2021.

Construction will begin after Turfway’s current live racing season ends March 28 with a 2500-seat grandstand, ballroom area and several bars planned. The facility will reopen as Turfway Park Racing & Gaming with historical race betting on new video gaming machines.

Churchill Downs Inc. acquired Turfway for $46 million in 2019 and fast-tracked renovation plans with intent to reopen in time for racing in December 2020.