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Maryland Approves Pimlico Race Course Demolition Ahead of $400M Rebuild

The century-old track will host its final Preakness Stakes this weekend before pre-demolition work begins in June, with a new facility slated to open in 2027.

Rendering showing the proposed multi-million dollar renovation to Pimlico. (Courtesy of Ayers Saint Gross and Populous)
National Treasure, with jockey John Velazquez, edges out Blazing Sevens, with jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., to win the148th running of the Preakness Stakes horse race at Pimlico Race Course, on May 20, 2023, in Baltimore.
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Overview

  • The Maryland Board of Public Works has approved $14.3 million to initiate the demolition and rebuild of Pimlico Race Course, with pre-demolition utility work starting in June 2025.
  • The $400 million project, funded through state bonds, will modernize the facility with a new clubhouse, barns for 400 horses, and expanded year-round racing and event capabilities.
  • The Preakness Stakes will remain at Pimlico in 2025, relocate to Laurel Park in 2026 during construction, and return to the rebuilt venue in 2027.
  • Safety concerns, including the 2019 closure of 7,000 grandstand seats, prompted the decision to demolish and rebuild the aging track.
  • Community investments include $110 million for Shamrock Farm to support interim racing operations and $10 million for housing, workforce, and infrastructure development in Park Heights.