Additional Gambling Space and Slot Machines for Hoosier Approved by Zoning Board

On August 21st, 2007, the plan of the Hoosier Park to add an additional 90,000 square feet to their facility so that they could offer an additional 2,000 slot machines has been given the go-ahead by the city zoning board.

Hoosier's expansion plan would double the slot machines gambling space of the horse racing track. An Anderson consultant for the Hoosier Park, Dick Donnelly, announced to the Anderson Board of Zoning Appeals that the Hoosier Park officials would present additional details in November. Rick Moore, the Hoosier Park president also met with the Indiana Horse Racing Commission, which must give their permission to the plans.

Rick Moore and the Chief Executive Officer of Centaur Racing, Jeff Smith, which owns the horse racing track commented that they are hoping that the groundbreaking of the project will start in mid-September.

The new gambling area for the slot machines will be found north of the racing track's clubhouse. There will be also a place for customers to buy food and drinks. The parking area will be widen to accommodate 2,000 vehicles.

The Indiana General Assembly approved the law this year that permits up to 2,000 slot machines at the two horse racing tracks in Indiana. Racing tracks must pay the initial licensing cost of $250 million on November 1st, 2007. The Indiana Downs in Shelbyville will also add new slot machines.

Tuesday, 18 September 2007
Caroline Mitchell