RUIDOSO DOWNS, N.M. — Ruidoso Downs Racetrack has announced plans to temporarily close its casino and horse race simulcast operations after a state inspection found a damaged culvert at the facility’s main entrance could pose a safety risk.
According to racetrack officials, the culvert sustained damage during flooding last year. After concerns were raised about its condition, Ruidoso Downs requested an inspection by the New Mexico Department of Transportation.
The inspection determined that the entrance should be closed, prompting the racetrack to move forward with plans to suspend casino and simulcast operations.
“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 a statement. “The results of the investigation have confirmed our decision to temporarily close the casino and horse race simulcast operations to the public.”
The closure remains subject to approval by the New Mexico Gaming Control Board, which is scheduled to discuss the matter during an emergency meeting on July 22 in Albuquerque.
Officials said the deteriorating condition of the entrance has raised concerns about safe access for visitors, employees, horsemen and emergency responders, particularly as the area enters the peak of the monsoon season.
Despite the temporary closure of casino and simulcast activities, horse racing events will continue as scheduled at Downs of Albuquerque. Live racing is planned on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as Labor Day on Sept. 7.
Ruidoso Downs also confirmed that the New Mexico Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred Sale on Aug. 15 and the All American Select Sale scheduled for Sept. 4-5 will proceed as planned at the Ruidoso Downs Horse Sales Pavilion.
