The competitive landscape of the Illinois gambling industry is heating up as Downstate racetrack pushes forward with plans to open a casino, while Hawthorne Race Course in suburban Stickney faces a legal battle that could delay its own casino ambitions.
Downstate Racetrack, located in the heart of Illinois horse racing country, has long been eyeing a casino as a way to boost revenue and attract new visitors. With the recent passage of the state’s gaming expansion bill, the racetrack is now moving ahead with plans to add a casino to its facilities.
The proposed casino at Downstate Racetrack would feature a wide range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and sports betting. The racetrack is also exploring the possibility of building a hotel on site to accommodate overnight guests.
In contrast, Hawthorne Race Course is facing a major hurdle in its quest to open a casino. A group of residents in Stickney, where Hawthorne is located, has filed a lawsuit against the racetrack, claiming that the casino would bring increased traffic and crime to their neighborhood.
The lawsuit has put a halt to Hawthorne’s casino plans, as the racetrack must now fight the legal battle in court before it can move forward with construction. Despite the setback, Hawthorne remains committed to opening a casino and is working to address the concerns raised by the residents.
The competition between Downstate Racetrack and Hawthorne Race Course highlights the fierce competition in the Illinois gambling market. With both racetracks vying for a share of the lucrative casino industry, the race is on to see which will come out on top.
As the legal battle continues to unfold, industry experts are keeping a close eye on the developments at both Downstate Racetrack and Hawthorne Race Course. The outcome of these conflicts could have far-reaching implications for the future of gambling in Illinois and the Midwest as a whole.