As the legislative session nears its end, the House Ways and Means Committee convened a hearing on Tuesday to discuss a proposed bill that could reshape the future of the Pimlico Race Course. The legislation aims to rebuild the historic racetrack and construct a state-of-the-art training facility, funded by $400 million in state bonds. Additionally, the plan includes the development of a new hotel, parking garage, and workforce housing, with ownership of the entire complex transferring to the state.

Greg Cross, chairman of the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority, advocated for the proposal, stating, “With this approach, the state would be investing in itself and the equine industry.”

However, Senate President Bill Ferguson acknowledged the challenges ahead, saying, “There is still a long road ahead. There are going to be a lot more conversations needed because I think there is some apprehension within our membership.” He further elaborated, “We are committed to trying to salvage what we can to make sure the horse industry is viable in Maryland, but it doesn’t come with a blank check. We are trying to ensure that the bill does not set the State of Maryland up in a place where we would have unknown costs in the future.”

During the committee hearing, other lawmakers echoed similar concerns about the potential financial implications of the project.

Cross sought to allay these fears, clarifying, “The proposed legislation does not seek to take any money away from Ocean Downs nor does it call for any money to be spent from this year’s budget or for additional state money to be spent to subsidize horse racing operations.”

Another critical issue raised was the impact on the surrounding community. Delegate Dalya Attar emphasized, “The reality is this is about an entire community that has been disinvested in for so long, and it’s about time we get things rolling.”

Eric Luedtke, the Governor’s Chief Legislative Officer, assured lawmakers of the administration’s commitment to the Park Heights neighborhood, stating, “In the governor’s opinion, he believes there is no Pimlico without Park Heights. He believes deeply that we need to invest in the community.”

As the legislative session winds down, the fate of the Pimlico Race Course and its potential redevelopment hangs in the balance, with lawmakers carefully weighing the costs, benefits, and community impact of this ambitious proposal.