A New Chapter for Birmingham’s Entertainment Landscape

The November 18, 2024, agreement between PCI and the McGregor Family, owners of Victoryland Casino in Shorter, Alabama, has culminated in the full acquisition of the Birmingham Race Course Casino. This strategic investment reflects the Poarch Creek Indians’ commitment to expanding their footprint in the hospitality and gaming sectors, while simultaneously contributing to the economic vitality of the region.

As a Tribal people, we are committed to being good neighbors and to being a force for economic growth and positive change. We are very excited to have this fantastic opportunity in Birmingham, and we look forward to creating a top-tier entertainment venue that will bring a boost to the local economy, provide good jobs, and attract tourists from all over the country to one of America’s most dynamic cities.
Stephanie bryan, PCI Tribal Chair and CEO

Bryan’s statement underscores the Tribe’s vision for the Birmingham Race Course Casino. The focus extends beyond gaming, aiming to create a multifaceted entertainment hub that draws visitors from across the nation and generates significant economic benefits for the local community. For U.S. readers, this is akin to the impact that large-scale casino resorts have had in cities like Las Vegas and Atlantic City, driving tourism and creating thousands of jobs.

Wind Creek Hospitality, headquartered in Atmore, Alabama, already boasts a diverse portfolio, including three 4-Diamond properties within the state, as well as hotel and casino destinations in Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and the Caribbean. This acquisition aligns with their broader strategy of developing and managing high-quality entertainment venues. The company’s experience in navigating the complexities of the gaming industry, coupled with their commitment to responsible corporate citizenship, bodes well for the future of the Birmingham Race Course Casino.

We are excited to finalize this acquisition and begin a new chapter for the Birmingham Race Course. Our vision is to build upon the strong foundation that is already in place while enhancing the facility to create a first-class entertainment destination that benefits the Birmingham community and the region.
Jay Dorris, President and CEO of PCI Gaming Authority

Dorris’ comments highlight the intention to leverage the existing infrastructure of the Birmingham Race Course Casino while introducing new amenities and attractions. This phased approach will likely involve careful consideration of market demand and community feedback, ensuring that the revamped facility caters to the needs and preferences of local residents and visitors alike.

Parimutuel Betting and the Future of Horse Racing in Birmingham

The Birmingham Race Course Casino will continue to offer parimutuel wagering and horse racing, preserving a tradition that has been a part of the city’s entertainment landscape for years. The Poarch Creek Indians have publicly indicated that they’ll collaborate with local elected and racing officials to develop expansion plans that honor the sport’s legacy and cater to the preferences of racing enthusiasts. It’s vital to note that horse racing in the U.S. has faced challenges in recent years, with declining attendance and increased competition from other forms of entertainment. The Tribe’s commitment to maintaining this aspect of the casino’s operations signals a dedication to preserving Birmingham’s unique identity and appealing to a diverse audience.

This property has been a key asset for the Birmingham area for years, and today’s announcement marks a commitment to elevating the Birmingham Race Course to new heights. the McGregor family is proud to have operated this property over the past three decades, and we are confident that it will be in great hands under the leadership of Wind Creek Hospitality.
Lewis Benefield, President of VictoryLand

Benefield’s statement reflects the McGregor family’s long-standing involvement with the Birmingham Race Course Casino and their confidence in Wind Creek Hospitality’s ability to build upon their legacy. The transition represents a significant shift in ownership, but the shared commitment to the community and the desire to create a thriving entertainment destination provide a strong foundation for future success.

Community Impact and Economic Progress

The redevelopment of the Birmingham Race Course Casino is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the city and the surrounding region. The creation of new jobs, both during the construction phase and in the ongoing operation of the facility, will provide employment opportunities for local residents and stimulate economic activity. The influx of tourists attracted to the entertainment destination will also generate revenue for local businesses, supporting the growth and development of the hospitality and tourism sectors.

More and more, Birmingham has a growing reputation as a destination for entertainment and sporting events, and this investment from the Poarch creek Indians is a testament to the potential and vibrancy of our community. The redevelopment of the Birmingham Race Course will create jobs,drive tourism,and further establish our city as a key player in the entertainment and hospitality industry.
birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin

Mayor Woodfin’s remarks underscore the importance of this investment for Birmingham’s future. The city has been actively working to attract new businesses and investments, and the poarch Creek Indians’ decision to develop a world-class entertainment venue is a significant vote of confidence in Birmingham’s potential. This mirrors successful revitalization projects seen in other U.S. cities, such as the development of entertainment districts in downtown areas, which have spurred economic growth and enhanced the quality of life for residents.

The Poarch Creek Indians anticipate finalizing the transfer of operations sometime this year and plan to conduct thorough market research to inform their expansion plans.This data-driven approach will ensure that the revamped Birmingham Race Course Casino meets the evolving needs of customers and remains a competitive force in the entertainment industry.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

While the acquisition of the Birmingham Race Course Casino holds significant promise, it is important to acknowledge potential challenges and considerations. The gaming industry is highly regulated, and Wind Creek Hospitality will need to navigate a complex web of state and local laws. Competition from other casinos and entertainment venues in the region will also pose a challenge, requiring the company to differentiate its offerings and attract a loyal customer base. Moreover, concerns about the social and economic impacts of gambling, such as problem gambling and potential increases in crime, will need to be addressed through responsible gaming initiatives and community engagement.

The Tribe will need to work collaboratively with local stakeholders, including community leaders, business owners, and residents, to ensure that the redevelopment of the Birmingham Race Course Casino benefits the entire community. This collaborative approach will foster trust and transparency, mitigating potential concerns and maximizing the positive impact of the project.

Looking Ahead: the Future of Entertainment in Birmingham

the Poarch creek Indians’ acquisition of the Birmingham Race Course Casino represents a significant milestone for the city and the region. The planned redevelopment of the facility has the potential to transform Birmingham’s entertainment landscape, creating jobs, driving tourism, and enhancing the quality of life for residents. By embracing a responsible and collaborative approach, the Tribe can ensure that this project benefits the entire community and contributes to Birmingham’s long-term economic success.