News Summary
The Poarch Creek Indians have acquired the Birmingham Racecourse from the McGregor Family, aiming to develop a major resort to enhance Birmingham’s entertainment landscape. This investment supports local economic growth and tourism while preserving horse racing. Local officials praise the acquisition as a significant step in revitalizing Birmingham. Future plans include community engagement and upgrades to the existing venue, creating jobs, and boosting the hospitality sector as the city aims to attract more visitors.
Birmingham, Alabama — Poarch Creek Indians Acquire Racecourse for Major Resort Development
Wind Creek Hospitality, a subsidiary of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, has officially acquired the Birmingham Racecourse from the McGregor Family. The acquisition, announced on April 3, 2025, represents a significant investment aimed at reshaping the entertainment landscape in Birmingham.
With plans for a world-class destination resort, the Poarch Creek Indians seek to enhance the existing property which will continue to offer parimutuel and historical horse racing. This move aligns with broader economic development efforts in Alabama, particularly as the state recorded $7 billion in new investments in 2024.
### Economic Impact
The acquisition is poised to create local jobs and stimulate economic growth in Birmingham. According to the Poarch Creek Indians, the new development is expected to attract more tourists to the area, fostering a hospitality ecosystem that supports local businesses. The transition is welcomed by Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin, who recognizes the project as a means to enhance the city’s economy and establish its reputation as an entertainment destination.
### Future Plans and Commitment
The Poarch Creek Indians aim to finalize the transfer of operations by 2025, with a commitment to conducting regional surveys that will help refine customer needs and expansion plans. Jay Dorris, President and CEO of PCI Gaming Authority, highlighted the tribe’s focus on enhancing the existing venue and creating a superior entertainment experience for the community.
### Response from Local Leadership
Local leaders, including former Birmingham Racecourse President Lewis Benefield, have praised the transition, noting the racecourse’s historical significance to the area. The Poarch Creek Indians will leverage their extensive experience, managing multiple 4-Diamond properties across Alabama and other states, to bring new standards to the Birmingham Racecourse site.
### Broader Trends
This acquisition aligns with ongoing economic development initiatives within Alabama, underscoring a trend of investment and revitalization in the state’s entertainment sector. The integration of this resort promises to bolster Birmingham’s tourism industry, drawing visitors not just for gaming but for the added amenities and attractions that a resort would offer.
With the growing interest in redevelopment projects, local residents and business owners are encouraged to engage with the upcoming changes and convey their expectations and needs during the planning phases. The Poarch Creek Indians’ commitment to community engagement and economic growth will play a critical role in the project’s success and its long-term benefits for Birmingham.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Birmingham Race Course Acquisition by Poarch Band of Creek Indians
Poarch Creek Indians Acquire Birmingham Racecourse for Redevelopment
Waverly Advisors Expands Operations with GGM Acquisition
Explore Birmingham’s Board Gaming Scene
Brighten Your Holidays in Birmingham with Festive Light Displays!
Birmingham Racecourse to be Acquired by Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Sparking Anticipation for Gambling Changes
Birmingham Racecourse Sale Signals Hope for Gambling Reforms in Alabama
Additional Resources
- Yellowhammer News: Audit the Vote Bill
- CBS42: Election Integrity Executive Order
- Alabama Reporter: Wes Allen Praises Trump’s Executive Order
- AL.com: Election Integrity Initiatives
- Calhoun Journal: Wes Allen Backs Trump’s Order
- Wikipedia: Election Integrity
- Google Search: Election Integrity Alabama
- Google Scholar: Election Integrity
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electoral System
- Google News: Alabama Election Integrity
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
