Keeneland planning $93 million expansion, new Paddock Building

Odds are some of you will go to Keeneland this weekend to enjoy the penultimate week of the fall meet. A year from now, the famous racetrack will look very different. This week, Keeneland announced plans for a $93 million expansion that will include a new Paddock Building that will wrap around the Paddock and Walking Ring and connect to the existing clubhouse. The three-level building will include new viewing and dining options for the public, including traditional sit-down dining, new bar concepts, a panoramic rooftop, and more.

“We spent a great deal of time looking at racing venues and sports facilities around the world for inspiration.” Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin said. “We also talked to our stakeholders and fans to understand what they love most about spending a day at Keeneland, whether it be during racing, sales or another occasion. Keeneland’s fans are the best in the industry, and we know the demand for tickets is often greater than the supply. This new facility will allow us to provide a variety of unique experiences allowing more fans to enjoy the finest hospitality in sports.”

New jockeys quarters and saddling stalls will also be part of the new Paddock Building, which will include a reconfigured East Gate entrance that will align with Keeneland Boulevard. The area inside the gates around the historic Sycamore tree will be expanded. Plans are also in the works for an on-site Visitors Center. Global design firm Populous is serving as the lead architect and the structures will be consistent with the rest of the track’s buildings, continuing the two-over-two stonework unique to Keeneland.

This is the largest capital project Keeneland has undertaken since the track opened nearly 90 years ago and is the first major construction project since the Keeneland Library was built in 2002. Construction is scheduled to begin in January 2024 and be completed in time for the 2025 Fall Meet. Racing and sales will continue at full capacity throughout construction.

Check out the renderings below.

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