TAMPA BAY DOWNS REOPENS; PARKING IS LIMITED

by Mike Henry

It may take a couple of days for a return to normalcy, but Tampa Bay Downs has reopened after heavy rains and severe flooding forced the track to close Monday and Tuesday due to a complete lack of customer access.

The Silks Poker Room on the third floor of the Grandstand opened today at 10 a.m. The track will offer full-card simulcasting on Thoroughbred and Greyhound racing on the first floor of the Clubhouse throughout the day.

Customer parking will be limited to the Clubhouse Lot. The Horsemen’s Lot and the West Lot in front of the main entrance remain closed today. Visitors are being advised not to use The Downs Golf Practice Facility entrance to the Clubhouse Lot.

“We appreciate the patience of our patrons during the past two days,” said Vice President-General Manager Peter Berube. “While the water is still far above normal levels in several areas, including the parking lots, barn area and infield, we are fortunate that both track surfaces and the main building have not been damaged.

“Hopefully, we are looking forward to a stretch of dry weather,” he added.