Plan Could Bring Off-Track Betting To Md. State Fairgrounds
TIMONIUM, Md. (WJZ) -- It's a high-stakes plan that could bring in big money. The Maryland Jockey Club is trying to bring a new off-track betting facility to the Maryland State Fairgrounds.
But some neighbors say the plan should be scratched.
Meghan McCorkell has more on the proposal.
Racing officials say a new facility could bring in between 100 to 125 people a day, which could translate to thousands of dollars.
It's a facility that sits empty more than 11 months of the year. Now officials are hoping to breathe new life into the grandstands at the Maryland State Fairgrounds.
"That would be such a great shot in the arm for us," said Andy Cashman, Maryland State Fair.
Plans are underway for a new 0ff-track betting facility on the grounds. Ninety video screens would let customers bet on live simulcast horse races around the world..
Both Pimlico and Laurel racetracks already offer off-track betting.
This fall, the Horseshoe Casino opened a site that's predicted to bring in over $12 million in its first year.
At Timonium...
"They're projecting anywhere from $500,000 to $600,000 a year," said Cashman.
That money would be split between the Jockey Club, horsemen and horse breeders and the State Fair, which says funds are badly needed.
"Just to replace the roof of the Cow Palace is over $1.5 million... something like that," said Cashman.
Off-track betting has already been happening at the Fairgrounds since 1984, during the ten days of the Maryland State Fair.
Still, some neighbors have started a petition to derail the plan.
"There's many people that morally aren't attuned to gambling and think it might have negative consequences for the surrounding community," said Eric Rockel, Greater Timonium Community Association.
Rockel, a lifelong Timonium resident, says traffic is also a concern.
"Traffic is many times lined up on York Road trying to get into that northern entrance," he said.
The future is now in the hands of the Maryland Racing Commission.
The Racing Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday before voting on whether to grant the permit.
The Jockey Club will also host an open house of the betting facility Wednesday starting at 4:30 p.m.