Churchill Downs’ ‘largest expansion’ ever: Nearly $1 billion in Kentucky Derby upgrades
The infield at the Kentucky Derby is going to get a lot posher as part of new renovation that Churchill Downs is calling “the largest expansion and renovation undertaken in the 150-year history” of the track.
Between 2025 and 2028, Churchill Downs Inc. plans to invest up to $920 million on track improvements, according to the announcement.
The Louisville racing and gambling company said that it has applied for economic incentives for the projects, which should be completed by the 154th Kentucky Derby in May 2028.
“These projects, as well as key infrastructure improvements, reflect the company’s commitment to providing world-class hospitality and premium seating options for guests for many decades to come,” said Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Inc., in the news release. “We have a proven track record of prudently investing capital in the Kentucky Derby to create once-in-a lifetime experiences for our guests while also creating significant long-term value for our shareholders.”
The announcement came as CDI also reported record fourth-quarter 2024 and full-year financial results.
Coming to the home of the Kentucky Derby
Churchill Downs plans to revamp the part of the grandstand known as the Skye Terrace, from the finish line to the first turn, replacing 11,500 existing uncovered seats and a dated dining area with 13,300 “premium hospitality experiences.” The Skye Project will be a new five-story structure that will transform the Clubhouse turn, according to Churchill Downs.
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The Skye Project will begin first and the first three floors are expected to open for Derby in May 2027, with the rest finished by May 2028. For Derby 2026, guests ticketed for the existing Skye Terrace will have the opportunity for alternative premium seating.
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In the Infield, Churchill plans to replace temporary suites with the Conservatory Project along the homestretch of the track; 2,100 temporary seats will be replaced with more than 7,000 premium “experiences” including 36 suites. Several spaces will overlook the Kentucky Derby winner’s circle and the Conservatory building will feature covered rooftop dining. The first phase is expected to be open for Derby in May 2026, with additional structures down the homestretch toward the starting gate finished by Derby 2027 and 2028.
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New building also will be coming for General Admission as well: Three new permanent buildings will create “ticket upgrade opportunities” with rooftop viewing options. The first building will be open for Derby 2026.
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Also coming: A new tunnel to the infield that “will serve as an immersive underground journey for guests delivering 150 years of Kentucky Derby storytelling magic and building excitement for the day ahead.”
The track also is investing in backside improvements for horsemen and trainers, according to the announcement.
