Churchill Downs Incorporated Unveils Derby City Gaming Downtown in Louisville
Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has marked a significant expansion in its entertainment offerings with the launch of Derby City Gaming Downtown (DCG Downtown) in Louisville, Kentucky.
This new $90 million venue is the latest addition to CDI’s portfolio, becoming their sixth historical racing machine (HRM) entertainment site in the state.
Grand Opening Festivities and Community Contributions
The grand opening of DCG Downtown was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a notable charitable gesture. CDI donated $40,000 to Norton Healthcare Foundation and The Hope Buss, demonstrating their commitment to the community and the revitalization of downtown Louisville.
Spanning 43,000 square feet, this two-story Kentucky Derby-themed venue is a fusion of entertainment and culture. It features:
- A gaming floor with 500 advanced HRMs, offering popular and fan-favorite gaming themes.
- Unique dining experiences, including the First Turn Sports Bar & Stage, Trophy Bar Bourbon & Cigars, and Fascinator Wine Bar.
- The property also boasts 130 on-site parking spaces and an impressive exterior with the region’s first naked-eye 3D video board.
- A Kentucky Derby gift shop accessible to all ages.
Kentucky Governor’s Endorsement
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear praised CDI’s forward-looking vision and their role in bringing communities together, acknowledging the company’s contribution to the state and global recognition.
The development of DCG Downtown has been a significant economic booster, creating 400 construction jobs and over 150 permanent positions. CDI’s collaboration with Messer Construction emphasized supplier diversity, economic inclusion, and community engagement, with over $14 million invested in Minority, Women, and Veteran-owned subcontracting services.
CDI CEO Bill Carstanjen highlighted the project’s significance, noting its impact beyond the horse industry. The venue is expected to energize downtown Louisville, attracting locals, bourbon tourists, and convention attendees, reflecting CDI’s commitment to the city’s culture and future.
Coinciding with the opening, CDI initiated a countdown to the 150th Kentucky Derby, unveiling the official Kentucky Derby 150 Mint Julep Glass and Kentucky Oaks 150 Lily Glass. The celebration also includes the #MyDerbyMemory contest, offering fans globally a chance to win tickets to the historic race on May 4, 2024.
Our Comment on the Article
The opening of DCG Downtown is a testament to CDI’s commitment to innovation and community engagement. This venture not only enriches the entertainment landscape of Louisville but also signifies a strategic move by CDI to integrate cultural elements with modern entertainment.
The combination of a state-of-the-art gaming experience, diverse dining options, and community-focused initiatives illustrates CDI’s holistic approach to business.
As Louisville prepares for the monumental 150th Kentucky Derby, DCG Downtown stands as a beacon of growth and revitalization in the heart of the city, promising a brighter, more vibrant future for the community and visitors alike.
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