Del Mar to get $3M fix-up

Del Mar will spend nearly $3 million for improvements in coming months, a project that includes the renovation of five backstretch barns and the construction of a permanent restaurant and new box-seat section in the grandstand.

The stable area renovation is the largest expenditure, costing $1.65 million, according to a statement released by the track.

Del Mar has been slowly upgrading its stable area in recent years. The renovated barns will feature space for 42 horses, living quarters for stable personnel, higher roofs, and added ventilation in shed rows. Each new barn will cost $300,000.

Another $150,000 will be spent on new staircases and flooring in some existing barns.

Aside from the grandstand additions, which will cost $900,000, other changes to the frontside include the construction of a clubhouse suite that will accommodate up to 48 people. Three already exist.

The new box seat section in the grandstand will accommodate 192 people. There will be seating for 600 in the new restaurant.

The track is also installing a head-on camera for viewing turf races through the stretch.