Wind Creek Hospitality, owned by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians (PCI), has completed the acquisition of Birmingham Race Course and Casino in Alabama.
The Tribe said the significant financial investment signals its long-term commitment to developing a world-class destination resort that creates good jobs and spurs economic growth in the city and region.
“We are excited to finalize this acquisition and begin a new chapter for the Birmingham Racecourse,” said Jay Dorris, president and CEO of PCI Gaming Authority. “Our vision is to build upon the strong foundation that is already in place while enhancing the facility to create a first-class entertainment destination that benefits the Birmingham community and the region.”
The facility will continue to offer the parimutuel and historical horse racing games currently in operation, while Wind Creek will work closely with local elected and racing officials as expansion plans are developed.
PCI Tribal Chair and CEO Stephanie Bryan said the acquisition emphasises the Tribe’s dedication to investment in the Birmingham community.
“As a Tribal people, we are committed to being good neighbors and to being a force for economic growth and positive change,” she said. “We are very excited to have this wonderful opportunity in Birmingham, and we look forward to creating a top-tier entertainment venue that will bring a boost to the local economy, provide good jobs, and attract tourists from all over the country to one of America’s most dynamic cities.”
Lewis Benefield, president of VictoryLand and former president of the Birmingham Race Course, added: “This property has been a key asset for the Birmingham area for years, and today’s announcement marks a commitment to elevating the Birmingham Race Course to new heights.
“The McGregor family is proud to have operated this property over the past three decades, and we are confident that it will be in great hands under the leadership of Wind Creek Hospitality.”
The McGregor family had previously sought to enhance the gaming and entertainment options at the facility but were unsuccessful due to “legislative hurdles”.
Alabama Senator Greg Albritton said this week that he plans to introduce legislation to authorise a state lottery, and legalise sports betting and other forms of gambling. The bill would be a scaled down version of a similar bill that narrowly failed to pass the legislature last year.
In addition to its new acquisition, Wind Creek Hospitality owns and operates three casino properties in Alabama, alongside properties in Florida, Pennsylvania and Illinois, as well as resorts in the Caribbean.