Construction of Calvert City gaming facility well underway for 2026 opening

Construction is well underway in Calvert City, where Churchill Downs Incorporated is developing the Marshall Yards Racing and Gaming facility.

The $50 million project plans to open in early 2026 at the former Willow Pond Restaurant location off I-24. It's planned to include 250 historical racing machines, a sports bar, retail sportsbook, simulcast wagering and multiple dining options. 

The 23,000-square-foot facility is expected to offer 90 permanent full-time positions once it opens in early 2026.

It'll be the eighth historical horse racing entertainment venue in Kentucky for Churchill Downs, approved by the Calvert City Council last August.

It'll operate as an extension of Oak Grove Racing, Gaming and Hotel in Christian County, where live harness racing is also offered from March through July.

Historical horse racing, also known as instant racing, uses electronic terminals resembling slot machines that allows players to bet on replays of horse races or dog races that have already been run.

Historical horse racing premiered in Arkansas in 2000, and now operates in eleven states.