Operator News
US – Pinnacle names Ohio project as Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center
By Phil - 28 October 2013
Pinnacle Entertainment has now announced the name of its Cincinnati, Ohio-based racetrack now under extensive redevelopment; Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center.
Set to open in May of 2014, pending regulatory approvals, the 122-acre Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center represents an expected investment of more than $300m for Pinnacle Entertainment inclusive of land and licensing fees.
Anthony Sanfilippo, Chief Executive Officer of Pinnacle Entertainment, said; “We are very excited to welcome Belterra Park to the Pinnacle Entertainment family. We have thoughtfully designed Belterra Park, integrating quality thoroughbred horse racing with a beautiful gaming entertainment facility. We have confidence this investment in Ohio is complementary to the portfolio of Pinnacle Entertainment properties and specifically a benefit to our guests who enjoy Belterra Casino Resort located an hour away in Florence, Indiana.”
Belterra Park will provide a best-in-market entertainment destination featuring live racing, pari-mutuel wagering, 1,600 video lottery terminals and six dynamic restaurants, a VIP Lounge, ample parking and more. The racing facility will feature a one mile dirt track and Ohio’s only turf track. A new Grandstand is included in the project, along with an OTB Racebook; River Downs Club, a new paddock, jockey’s quarters and 17 new barns.
The economic impact of Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center will be immediate with an expected 700 permanent jobs created and anticipated annual payroll and benefits topping $23-million. The more than $300m investment will generate 350 construction jobs during the expansive renovation.
In building Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center, Pinnacle Entertainment will preserve and honor the rich history of the property that once was River Downs Racetrack. Original cupolas from the track will be incorporated into the property’s new design on the infield tote board and Winner’s Circle. In addition, terra cotta horse head sculptures from the original grandstand will be on display on the property’s lower level. Plans also call for the River Downs Club featuring racing memorabilia and original jockey silks from historic stakes races.
“The development plans for Belterra Park allow us to honor the tradition of River Downs while growing our customer base in the market through enhanced offerings for our guests,” said Belterra Park Vice President and General Manager Kevin Kaufman. He adds, “We expect to provide the best total racing, dining and entertainment experience in the region and we’re thrilled to share this dynamic destination with our guests and the Cincinnati community when we open next May.”
