The Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission has recently approved licensing for a Park City historic horseracing (HHR) facility. Crosswinds Casino in Sedgwick County will also expand to a Class III gaming venue.
Kansas passed a bill in 2022 to pave the way for both historic horseracing and sports betting. Senate Bill 84 outlines specific requirements, including allowing one facility in Sedgwick County.
Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission Government Manager Randy Evans spoke to KSN local news of the benefits of having a variety of betting options, including horseracing, around the state.
He commented, “I think it’s an exciting time to be in the business with the different types of gambling, sports betting, typical Las Vegas style casinos and now HHR parimutuel.”
Evans went on to explain that adding another facility would require the state to pass another law.
He said, “Senate Bill 84 only allows for one facility specifically in Sedgwick County. And specifically 1,000 HHR machines.
“Theoretically, the legislature could pass a bill that allowed for additional HHR machines in other counties or other places in the state.”
Sports betting has been legal in Kansas’ four casinos since 2022. However, HHR facilities are currently prohibited from having sportsbooks on site but can partner with mobile app providers to offer players online sports betting.
Crosswinds Casino told local news that it anticipates breaking ground on its expansion project during the next three to six months and is working with the Federal Government to convert the space from a Class II to Class III gaming destination.
The casino has access to over 10 acres set aside for gaming space, with another 100 acres designated for a hotel and for dining.
