An Illinois Senate bill endorsing a potential racino in Decatur has successfully passed and is now on its way to the House of Representatives, with further deliberations anticipated when legislators return in January.
The proposed project, budgeted at $150 million, dubbed “Decatur Downs,” aims to integrate harness racing with casino gaming, pending approval from both state and municipal authorities.
The racino is set to be positioned near Route 36 and Wyckles Road, directly across from the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. According to Decatur City Council member David Horn, this initiative, championed by Senator Dorris Turner, offers a fresh opportunity for the city to enhance its entertainment and tourism sector.
Horn clarified that there are no requests for public funds related to this venture. “This is a $150 million economic development initiative,” he stated.
Horn claimed that this racino could generate approximately 300 permanent job opportunities upon its opening. He further mentioned that this facility might also indirectly boost local business. “Visitors may choose to stay at local hotels, dine at nearby restaurants, and fuel up at local gas stations,” he noted.
Decatur is already home to over 80 gambling machine locations, with approximately 500 slot machines scattered throughout the city. If approved, the racino would introduce an additional 900 gaming seats.
Horn recognized that the proposal has received mixed feedback from local residents. “Some community members believe Decatur could usher in a new era for horse racing,” he noted. “Others have reached out to express their concerns, stating, ‘We already have too many gambling venues.’”
He also highlighted the ongoing discussion around the social implications of gambling. “One could argue that the city of Decatur already has a gambling issue,” Horn remarked.
With the bill’s approval in the Illinois Senate, the proposal is one step closer to being examined by the House of Representatives. Once state lawmakers gather again in January, the measure could progress for further consideration and resolution.
If state sanction is secured, the City of Decatur will then decide whether to advance with the project and establish the terms governing its development.