Delta Downs announces expansion plans

Delta Downs in Vinton, La., is set to undergo a $45 million expansion to its hotel and food-and-beverage facilities, Boyd Gaming, the parent company of Delta, announced on Tuesday. Construction is scheduled to begin in September and is to be completed by the end of 2016.

Delta Downs will construct a new hotel tower that will feature 167 additional rooms and suites at the track. There are also plans to redesign the hotel’s 200 existing rooms. Boyd also plans to expand its special-event center, located ontrack at Delta.

Kevin Smith, president of Boyd Gaming, said in a release that expansion is necessary because customer demand exceeds what Delta can accommodate. Once renovated, Delta will have nearly 370 rooms and suites at the track, which operates a slots casino in addition to conducting meets for Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses.

“Delta Downs is one of our company’s strongest-performing properties, serving one of the most economically vibrant regions of the country,” Smith said. “This project is consistent with our ongoing strategy of diversifying and strengthening our non-gaming amenities, and we believe it will deliver a solid return on investment for our shareholders.”

Delta’s current meet for Quarter Horses runs through July 11. Thoroughbreds return in October. The track’s Grade 3, $1 million Delta Downs Jackpot for 2-year-olds is in November.