Churchill Downs Incorporated has announced that it has launched a process to divest the 326 acres in Arlington Heights, Illinois, that are currently the home of Arlington International Racecourse.
Reasserting a commitment to the Illinois thoroughbred racing industry, CDI says that it intended to relocate its Arlington racing license to another community in the Chicagoland area or elsewhere in the state.
“Arlington’s ideal location in Chicago’s northwest suburbs, together with direct access to downtown Chicago via an on-site Metra rail station, presents a unique redevelopment opportunity,” said Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI.
“We expect to see robust interest in the site and look forward to working with potential buyers, in collaboration with the Village of Arlington Heights, to transition this storied location to its next phase.”
The company is committed to running Arlington’s 2021 race dates from April 30 – September 25, and does not expect any sale of the site to close prior to the conclusion of venue’s 2021 race meet, or that the conduct of the sale process will impact the facility’s racing operations this year.
“In the meantime, we are very committed to pursuing the relocation of Arlington’s racing license to another community in the Chicagoland area or elsewhere in the state,” added Carstanjen.
“We are exploring potential options with the state and other constituents and remain optimistic that we can find solutions that work for the state, local communities and the thousands of Illinoisans who make their living directly or indirectly from thoroughbred horse racing.
“We are committed to the Illinois thoroughbred racing industry and will consider all options in working toward opportunities for it to continue into the future.”
