The Nevada Standardbred Association Inc. (NSA) has submitted a proposal for a new 400-acre horse racing compound in Pahrump that would include a ⅞-mile long harness racing track, an attached casino-resort, professional stable facilities and other amenities.
The compound, named the Pahrump Valley Equine Performance Center of Excellence, would be located on the north side of Pahrump near Highway 160. According to the proposal, the track would create nearly 200 equestrian and hospitality-related jobs, which is a big number for the largely rural area.
Tim Bohannon, NSA president, submitted the proposal to Nye County commissioners earlier this month, during which he said that the plan was “forward-thinking and may be subject to change.”
No budget has been established for the project, but estimates start in the millions. According to Bohannon, the funding would largely come from the Western Saddlebred Alliance Inc.
Numerous permits will be required before development can begin, but the general response from commissioners and audience members was positive. According to the Pahrump Valley Times, commissioners Debra Strickland, Bruce Jabbour and Leo Blundo have all voiced support for the project.
The racing season for the Pahrump track would run from October through May, with two meets per week and 12 races per meet–the meets would be simulcast internationally. These terms are still subject to approval by the Nevada Racing Commission.
Community involvement and sustainability were points of emphasis for the NSA, as the track would also feature an educational center to be utilized by 4-H and other local organizations. A cutting-edge manure processing and water reclamation facility is also among the proposed plans.
While Nevada has long stood as the nation’s top casino gambling state, horse racing is largely absent, which is why many feel that the new track could be the start of a flourishing new industry. According to data from the American Horse Council, the equestrian industry brings in about $39 billion annually, and racing operators would like to see some of that revenue start to flow through the Silver State.
