The opening of the brand-new Derby City Gaming Downtown (DCG Downtown) marks a significant milestone in Churchill Downs Incorporated’s (CDI) expansion within the vibrant heart of Louisville, Kentucky. The grand unveiling of this $90 million investment has introduced a sophisticated venue that ties together the rich tapestry of Kentucky’s horse racing legacy with modern entertainment options, aimed at rejuvenating the downtown area and stimulating future development.
Strategically located in the bustling metropolis, the facility is proud to be CDI’s sixth establishment in the Bluegrass State. With a strong Kentucky Derby motif, DCG Downtown is poised to become a landmark, featuring a remarkable collection of 500 Historical Racing Machines (HRMs). These HRMs provide an innovative form of gaming that harnesses past horse races to provide an experience akin to slot machines, appealing to both the traditional and contemporary gamers.
The venue’s amenities are built to cater extensively to the patrons’ comfort and enjoyment. With three culinary outlets to choose from, visitors have the chance to indulge in a wide array of gastronomic delights. Seamless parking is ensured by the inclusion of 130 spaces designed to accommodate guests arriving from near and far. Moreover, the property’s exterior is adorned with an attention-grabbing 3D video board, further cementing its place as a pinnacle of entertainment in the city.
One cannot overstate the economic impact of DCG Downtown. Even before its doors opened to the public, the project had generated 400 construction jobs, continuing the ripple effect of prosperity by providing over 150 permanent positions to the local community upon completion. Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusivity, CDI has proudly invested more than $14.0 million in contracts with firms owned by minorities, women, and veterans.
Churchill Downs Chief Executive Officer Bill Carstanjen expressed his sense of pride regarding the dual impact of the project: not only does it bolster Kentucky’s horse industry, but it is also set to invigorate downtown Louisville and spark further investments of a similar nature. An advocate for the community, Carstanjen emphasizes that DCG Downtown is more than a financial asset; it embodies the spirit, culture, and future vision for the city. He envisions the venue as a dynamic hotspot for locals, bourbon aficionados, convention-goers, and a diverse crowd of visitors seeking unparalleled entertainment.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear echoed these sentiments by lauding the perfectly aligned blend of heritage and innovation that the venue brings. Beshear highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the state’s culture and the racing industry, observing Churchill Downs’ progressive approach to not only honor its past achievements but also forge an even brighter shared future for Kentucky.
The unveiling of DCG Downtown constitutes a notable chapter in Kentucky’s broader expansion of its legal gaming landscape. The state witnessed the recent launch of its online sports betting market, initially ushering in the retail betting phase on September 7, followed by the online inauguration on September 27. Major industry players including Bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, Circa, DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics, and Penn Sports Interactive were among the entities awarded online licenses. Furthermore, Kambi received a service provider license, though its focus remains on retail operations.
As the gaming sector in Kentucky flourishes, several racetracks and satellite facilities have also been granted retail licenses. Alongside DCG Downtown, the list of venues features prominent names such as Ellis Park, The Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland Run, and others across various locations including Newport and Oak Grove. Kentucky’s committed initiative has additionally seen licenses awarded to three new establishments, with the intent to continue promoting growth and diversity in the state’s entertainment offerings.
In summary, Derby City Gaming Downtown stands as a beacon of progress, merging Kentucky’s storied tradition with the anticipation of a thriving future in entertainment and economic prosperity.
