Proposed Decatur Downs racino clears first legislative hurdle in Illinois

A bill supporting a proposed racino in Decatur, Illinois, has cleared the State Senate and is now headed to the House of Representatives, though further discussion won’t take place until lawmakers reconvene in January.

The $150 million project, known as “Decatur Downs,” would combine casino gaming and harness racing if ultimately approved by both the state and city.

The proposed racino would be located near Route 36 and Wyckles Road, across from the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. Decatur City Council member David Horn said the development, supported by Senator Dorris Turner, represents an opportunity for the city to consider a new entertainment and tourism initiative.

Horn confirmed that no public funds have been requested for the project. “This is a $150 million economic development project,” he said.

Horn said the proposed racino could create around 300 permanent jobs once operational. He added that the facility might also contribute indirectly to local commerce. “[Visitors] may stay in area hotels, eat in area restaurants, and buy area gas,” he said.

Decatur currently hosts more than 80 locations with gambling machines, totaling about 500 slot machines citywide. The racino, if approved, would add 900 additional seats for gaming.

Horn acknowledged that the proposal has drawn mixed reactions from residents. “Some individuals will say that Decatur can be the site of a horse racing renaissance,” he said. “Individuals have contacted me and said, ‘We already have too many gambling establishments.’”

He also noted the ongoing debate about gambling’s social costs. “You could already argue that the city of Decatur has a gambling problem,” Horn said.

The bill’s passage in the Illinois Senate moves the proposal closer to review by the House of Representatives. Once lawmakers reconvene in January, the measure could move forward for further debate and decision.

If it secures state approval, the City of Decatur would then determine whether to proceed with the project and what conditions would govern its development.