Staff report
The Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino will temporarily cease operations after the state Department of Transportation recommended that the facility do so to fix a culvert at the track’s entrance, according to a press release sent out Thursday afternoon.
“We requested that the New Mexico Department of Transportation inspect the condition of the culvert located at the entrance,” Ruidoso Downs General Manager Rick Baugh said in the release. “The results of the investigation have confirmed our decision to temporarily close the casino and horse race simulcast operations to the public.”
The closure requires the approval of the New Mexico Gaming Control Board, the release says. The board will hold an emergency meeting on July 22 in Albuquerque to address the closing.
The culvert at the entrance of the Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino showcased damage concerns leading to the closure of the property on Thursday, July 16.
DOT engineer Jonathan Boyle inspected the culvert on the west side of the track on June 26, according to a letter he wrote to racetrack officials. He noticed bulging and other deformations on the culvert that may affect the roadway’s loadbearing ability.
“I reccommend closing this entrance before further damage can be caused to the roadway and ensure the safety of the traveling public,” Boyle wrote.
The racetrack was heavily damaged during last year’s flood and was forced to close, causing races to be moved to The Downs Racetrack and Casino in Albuquerque.
“We recognize the impact this decision has on our employees, business partners, and loyal patrons,” Baugh said. “However, the safety of every individual who enters our property must remain our foremost consideration. Given the heightened flood risk during the monsoon season and concerns surrounding the condition of the main entrance culvert, we believe this closure is the prudent and responsible decision.”
Races will continue in Albuquerque on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as Labor Day on Sept. 7. The New Mexico Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred Sale will continue at the Ruidoso Downs Horse Sales Pavilion on Aug. 15, as will the All American Select Sale from Sept. 4-5.
