Penn National Gaming Inc. and the Ohio Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association have reached an agreement in regard to the under-construction Youngstown-area racetrack that will replace Beulah Park.
The Ohio State Racing Commission in January expressed displeasure with the pace of the contract talks as well as the lack of a guarantee for 988 stalls at Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course. The contract update was provided to the OSRC at its Feb. 27 meeting.
PNGI officials said "all substantive issues of the contract are complete," with only final approvals needed by both parties. The agreement includes 988 stalls for Thoroughbred racing at the new facility, which will have video lottery terminals.
Construction on the barns will proceed as soon as the agreement is signed, officials said.
Mahoning Valley is scheduled to open for live racing this fall. Beulah Park near Columbus will offer its final live racing program May 4.