Pimlico Race Course to Close for Major Renovations

Pimlico Race Course, home of the Preakness Stakes, is set to undergo major renovations starting on September 1st. The track, which has fallen into disrepair in recent years, will be closed for a massive reconstruction project that aims to restore its former glory.

The decision to renovate Pimlico comes after years of neglect and decay at the historic track. Water and plumbing issues, as well as a condemned grandstand, have plagued Preakness Days in recent years, prompting calls for action to be taken.

The $400 million rebuild, signed into law by Gov. Wes Moore in May, will involve Maryland taking over control of the track, building a new training center, and eventually closing Laurel Park to shift full-time racing to Pimlico. The hope is that these renovations will not only improve the track’s facilities but also attract more fans and bring back some of the Preakness’s former glory.

For racing fans who tune in once a year for the Preakness, the renovations will mean a temporary shift in venue. The race will be moved to Laurel Park in 2026 before returning to Pimlico in 2027. This move is reminiscent of the Belmont Stakes’ two-year hiatus at Saratoga Race Course while the Long Island track underwent renovations.

Overall, the renovations at Pimlico are seen as a much-needed step towards revitalizing the track and ensuring the future of horse racing in Maryland. With the hope of a brighter future for the Preakness and racing in the state, fans can look forward to seeing a new and improved Pimlico Race Course in the coming years.