MTROA Updates On Pimlico Plus

As the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority continues in the schematic-design phase for new Pimlico Race Course, it appears a major change to the original plans will be made.

“It’s highly likely we’ll be taking another look at not rotating the track,” MTROA Chairman Greg Cross said during a Nov. 15 meeting. Plans have called for removing the existing dirt track and turf course, moving the footprint and constructing new surfaces. That would require purchase of property from the adjacent LifeBridge Health Sinai Hospital.

Cross said not rotating the surfaces would preserve history and acknowledge concerns in the Park Heights community. He also said it would shorten the build-out of the property and reduce construction costs.

“It seems like a win-win in all directions,” Cross said, noting the schematic-design process won’t slow progress of the overall project.

The MTROA also discussed a series of improvements being made at Laurel Park given the end of training operations at Pimlico Sept. 1 of this year. The improvements, some of which are underway, include a new portable shower facility; renovation of the part of the track kitchen and recreation building to accommodate a food prep area for residents; replacement of some laundry machines; and an increase in cleaning and waste services in the barn area.

MTROA Interim Chief Executive Officer Corey Johnsen said there will be additional improvements in 2025, the year The Maryland Jockey Club, a new not-for-profit entity under the MTROA, takes control of racing operations from 1/ST Racing (The Stronach Group). Though the state has obtained Pimlico, the Laurel property will be leased from 1/ST racing from Jan. 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2027, for $1 per year.

The MTROA Board of Directors approved the 2025 operating budget for the not-for-profit after a “high level” public discussion that did not include actual numbers. Johnsen said MJC budgets for the last seven or eight years were reviewed, and the new operator is projected to “do a little better” than the 2024 figures. The Preakness Stakes and Black-Eyed Susan Stakes programs are not included in the budget given the fact 1/ST Racing will operate them through 2026.

Johnsen said projections call for a 1% increase in daily pari-mutuel handle in 2025 based upon the expectation that fewer racing dates at Laurel and Pimlico will result in an increase in the quality of the racing product. Laurel will be dark in July and August under a cooperative agreement with Colonial Downs in Virginia.

The MTROA also discussed the structure of its relationship with The Maryland Jockey Club. The not-for-profit will hold the majority of contracts tied to racing operations and will submit an annual budget to the MTROA for approval. Cross said the not-for-profit is intended to be standalone, with no intention by the MTROA to micromanage the operation.

The MTROA, not The new MJC, will deal with matters related to the General Assembly, he said. In 2025, the MTROA will schedule quarterly meetings, beginning in January, and if needed hold meetings in between the regular meetings. The next meeting for 2024 is scheduled for Dec. 17.

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