Horse racing workers future uncertain as Arlington Park closes
Arlington Park officials announced they will layoff 237 employees as part of what they called its “permanent” closure on its last day of racing Saturday. Industry members say the closure is the end of a long, slow decline at the track, which used to employ more than 1,000 workers. Churchill Downs Inc. (CDI) announced this year that it is selling the track and its surrounding 326-acre property in Arlington Heights. Bidders include the Chicago Bears and at least one group that wants to save horse racing at the park.