Churchill Downs Inc. has unveiled a record $920 million expansion projects to improve the Kentucky Derby experience. The three large-scale projects—The Skye Project, The Conservatory Project, and the Infield General Admission Project—are set to be developed within the next three years. The expansion is the biggest in the 150-year history of the racetrack.
The Skye Project ($455–$465 Million)
The Skye Project will transform the area from just past the finish line to the First Turn Club. It will replace 11,500 existing uncovered box seats and old dining areas with 13,300 new seats, offering upscale hospitality and more spectacular views of the track.
One of the most prominent aspects of this project is the construction of a new five-story building as a replacement for current Skye Terrace. The first three floors ought to be ready for the 153rd Kentucky Derby in May 2027, while completion will be ready in time for the 154th Kentucky Derby in 2028.
As the work continues, ticket holders in affected areas will have alternative premium seating available so that they can still experience the Derby.
The Conservatory Project ($320–$330 Million)
The project will substitute infield suites on the homestretch with permanent structures, increasing seating from 2,100 to over 7,000. It will also introduce 36 luxury suites and a variety of upscale hospitality spaces.
Phase one, opening for the 152nd Kentucky Derby in 2026, includes:
The Pagoda Club and Terrace, offering panoramic views of the grandstand and Winner’s Circle.
The first Conservatory building, nine luxury suites, and a roof-top dining facility.
The Stargazer Lounge, infield first-turn private VIP lounge.
Later phases will extend the Conservatory buildings along the homestretch, with additional facilities opening in the 153rd and 154th Kentucky Derby racing events in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Read also: Qiddiya’s Formula One Speed Park Construction Budgeted at $4 Billion Kicks Off
Infield General Admission Project ($60–$70 Million)
This development will introduce three permanent buildings in the infield complementing facilities for general admission spectators. The facilities will include more entertainment spaces, rooftop observation decks, and ticketing opportunities.
The first building will be ready for the 152nd Kentucky Derby in 2026, the second in 2027, and the third in 2028.
Infrastructure Upgrades ($45–$55 Million)
Churchill Downs also has plans to modernize its infrastructure, including:
Improvements to the facilities for horsemen and trainers.
A new tunnel to enhance access between the infield and front side of the track.
Project Timeline and Funding
Churchill Downs is going to cost $120–$130 million in 2025 and looks to complete the three projects, along with upgrades to infrastructure, by the 154th Kentucky Derby in May 2028. Also, Churchill Downs is seeking incentives from Louisville Metro Government and the state agencies such as the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development.
Read also: Cincinnati Children’s Liberty Campus Set for $365 Million Expansion
Churchill Downs Expansion Project Factsheet
Project Overview
The largest expansion in Churchill Downs’ 150-year history comprises three major projects to enhance the Kentucky Derby experience, scheduled for completion by the 154th Kentucky Derby in 2028.
Key Projects
The Skye Project
Scope: Transformation of finish line to First Turn Club area
Capacity: Increases from 11,500 to 13,300 seats
Features: New five-story building replacing Skye Terrace
Timeline: Phase 1 completion – May 2027 (153rd Derby)
Final completion – May 2028 (154th Derby)
The Conservatory Project
Scope: Permanent structures along homestretch
Capacity: Increases from 2,100 to 7,000+ seats
Key Amenities:
Pagoda Club and Terrace
36 luxury suites
Stargazer Lounge (VIP)
Rooftop dining facility
Timeline: Phase 1 – May 2026 (152nd Derby)
Subsequent phases – 2027-2028
Infield General Admission Project
Scope: Three permanent infield buildings
Features: Entertainment spaces, rooftop observation decks
Timeline: One building per year (2026-2028)
Infrastructure Improvements
Modernized horsemen and trainer facilities
New tunnel connecting infield to track front side
Financial Information
2025 Investment: $120-130 million
Seeking incentives from:
Louisville Metro Government
Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development
Churchill Downs Expansion Project Completion
Final completion scheduled for May 2028 (154th Kentucky Derby)
Read also: The Missouri Theme Park: A $500 Million Expansion Project in America’s Heartland
