Laurel's new barns should be in use by April

Construction has begun on new stalls at Laurel Park. Under the 10-year agreement between the Maryland Jockey Club and the horsemen that was signed in 2012, the Stronach Group, owner of the MJC, agreed to build an additional 300 stalls as part of the backstretch revitalization project.

Horses in Maryland are stabled at Laurel, Pimlico, and the Bowie Training Center during the year. Once the additional stalls are completed, stabling could be consolidated to two locations.

“We broke ground before Christmas, and 150 stalls will be finished with horses in them by April,” said Tim Ritvo, chief operating officer of the Stronach Group.