Ho-Chunk Inc., the economic development partners of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, recently announced plans to develop the South Sioux City Racing and Event Center at the former Atokad Downs racetrack in South Sioux City, Iowa, which it purchased in 2012. At the time Ho-Chunk officials said they bought the facility to prevent competition with its WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa.
Officials said construction would start this summer and the first race could run in September, most likely following Lincoln Race Course’s required 2016 race. The project will include a 65-foot wide track—one furlong from start to finish—with a curve built into a 1,400 foot long extension for safe stops. Plans also call for bleachers near the finish line, a 6,000 square foot building with a full kitchen and bar and a simulcast facility.
Ho-Chunk Director of Development Alexcia Boggs told the Nebraska Racing Commission the nonprofit South Sioux City Racing and Events Center Inc. will operate the facility. She stated the project will move forward despite the outcome of a petition drive seeking to amend the state constitution and legalize casino-style gambling at horse racetracks in Nebraska. Ho-Chunk has contributed nearly $727,000 to Keep the Money in Nebraska, the group behind the petition drive. According to recent legal filings, the group raised a total of $751,000 through February 24.
Boggs added if the track ran only a single race, it would meet state requirements to apply for simulcast racing at other Nebraska and U.S. tracks. She said Ho-Chunk would consider extending the track to a full course and host more live racing if there’s enough interest. “We’re excited for what other opportunities this will bring to the Siouxland area,” Boggs said.
Built in 1956, Atokad at its peak had grandstand seating for 2,600 and barn space for 500 horses. It closed after the 2012 season.
