by Evan Pattak, for The Meadows

Washington, PA — The Meadows Racetrack & Casino announced today it has invested an additional $4 million to the backstretch operations of the facility’s racetrack. Investments in the improvements to the barns, infrastructure and environment have exceeded $10 million to date.

The Meadows replaced many of the older barns which house the 825 horse population. Other improvements include new stalls, gates, matting, ventilation systems, windows, and paving around the barns.

The environment also came out a winner with The Meadows’ improvements to alleviate storm water and wastewater run-off.

The Meadows is also in the process of installing a state-of-the-art security system to enhance safety throughout the entire racing complex.

“These investments confirm our commitment to providing high quality harness racing for years to come,” said Kevin Decker, director of racetrack operations for The Meadows. “While not seen by the public, these improvements will have a lasting impact on the drivers, trainers, staff, along with the health of the horses.”

In June 2012, The Meadows celebrated the completion of the six new barns and a 10-race paddock including paved aisles and HVAC, among other improvements. While there are currently less barns, each one includes more stalls and features the latest technology in airflow management.

The initial $6.25 million investment began the replacement process for the original barns built when the track opened for business in 1963.

The improvements were privately funded by The Meadows’ parent company Cannery Casino Resorts, fulfilling a requirement of Pennsylvania Act 71 (Pennsylvania Slots Bill). The Act, signed into law in 2004, directed the slots licensee to spend a total of $6.25 million of private equity on backside improvements over a 10-year period. The Meadows has worked collaboratively with the Meadows Standardbred Owners Association and the Meadows Horsemen’s Group.

The Meadows backside consists of 70 acres with 22 barns housing approximately 840 stalls, three blacksmith shops, two tack shops, offices for the Pennsylvania Harness Commission and the MSOA, along with a 10-race paddock and a track chapel.