With the horse racing industry struggling to stay afloat, Vernon Downs Casino and Hotel is undertaking a massive expansion project that owner Jeffrey Gural hopes will help return the track to a level of profitability.
“I’m optimistic that by doing this, it’ll increase revenues,” said owner Jeff Gural.
Phase one of the three phase expansion project began on Friday, putting approximately 50 construction workers and laborers on site of the $8.1 million job that is expected to be complete this time next year.
Over the projected three year build out period the New York harness racing facility will add a 70 seat simulcast facility, 16,000 square foot multipurpose room, a rooftop garden, a restaurant, a two-tier outdoor patio and 1,000 square foot lounge and bar and create an additional 50 full time jobs .
Vernon Downs currently has a 34,000 square foot gaming facility with 750 video gaming machines, restaurants, lounges, arcades and a live racing facility employing 345 people.
“We look forward to the completion of this project adding yet another dimension to our facility,” commented General Manager Scott Freeman.






