Horse Racing at Raton - And They're Off!!
The New Mexico Racing Commission approved Horse Racing at Raton to begin construction of the Simulcast and Racetrack facility in Raton, NM.
On Wednesday, May 20th, the New Mexico Racing Commission unanimously approved the request from Horse Racing at Raton to begin construction of the Simulcast and Racetrack facility in Raton. The approval was welcomed by applause from the racing commission audience at the May 20th meeting. This decision reaffirms the August 2008 decision by the New Mexico Racing Commission to return racing to Raton.
Mayor Joe F. Apache expressed his appreciation for the action taken by the New Mexico Racing Commission as a confirmation that Raton is the rightful location to expand the New Mexico racing industry. “This project is a huge part of the economic future of this region and something we are really looking forward to.”
Mr. Moldenhauer advised that he was pleased to have the permission to proceed with construction and added that they were working closely with the New Mexico Gaming Control Board to obtain their final clearance as well.
The City of Raton’s planning department approved on Monday the zoning permit for the interim facility which helps to facilitate Horse Racing at Raton’s ability to commence earthworks and site infrastructure. “The City is working closely with Albuquerque firm, RBA Architectural and the Project General Contractor, Franken Construction of Las Vegas, NM, on the details of the master plan for the facility,” said City Manager, P.J. Mileta.
The New Mexico Racing Commission will be hosting its June Commission Meeting in Raton with plans focused on a formal ground breaking ceremony of this new facility during that week. The Raton City Commission is scheduled to proclaim the month of June “Mine That Bird” month in honor of the Kentucky Derby winner’s connection to Raton. Trainer Chip Wooley was born in Raton and started his horse racing career at La Mesa Park and in-fact was introduced to Mine That Bird’s owner Mark Allen in Raton. Earlier this week during a phone conversation with City Manager, P.J. Mileta, Mr. Wooley asked about the progress of the race track in Raton and expressed his desire to return to Raton for summer racing.
Mr. Moldenhauer added, “Rick Bennett and his team have developed a style and concept that is commensurate with this state of the art facility.”
See views from the north and views from the south of the facility, as well as the master site plan and utility site plan.
