Cuomo: Historic track “a waste”
The future of Aqueduct as a racing venue was a major topic at the March 5 meeting of NYRA’s Reorganization Board. The board has until next April to submit a long-term plan for New York racing to the state, and some wonder if Aqueduct?now home of Resorts World, the racino developed and operated by Genting?can continue to operate as a racetrack.
According to the Daily Racing Form, last fall Governor Andrew Cuomo called Aqueduct “a waste” and said the state should consider other uses for the property.
Among the problems there: a sexual assault in a restroom on Super Bowl Sunday; a recent theft of some trophies and computers; and complaints about cleanliness. In response to the latter, NYRA has resumed control of maintenance, which had been taken over by Genting, and will soon begin to manage the food services as well.
NYRA conducts racing at Aqueduct six months of the year. In its favor, board member Barry Ostrager said, “Aqueduct has historically been a profitable meet for NYRA.”
Aqueduct, Belmont Park and Saratoga Springs all are due for $1.9 million in capital improvements. Aqueduct will open its Longshots simulcast facility and sports bar soon. Belmont Park will get 131 new high-definition TVs, a new concession stand, and a new giant video board. At Saratoga, NYRA will install 750 new HD televisions, three new large video walls and 125 picnic tables.
