Decatur's $27 Million Racino Hope Rests on Sunday Legislative Deadline

Decatur leaders are counting on a Sunday deadline in Springfield to approve a racino project that could generate $27 million annually in state and local tax revenue for Macon County.

The bill to create Decatur Downs, a horse track casino at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, passed the Senate in October on a 49-8 vote. It has stalled in the House. Lawmakers and advocates are now pushing for final passage before the legislative session ends.

What the racino would bring

Advocates presented the proposal to the House Executive Committee Tuesday. They outlined a facility that would include grandstands, a sports complex, recreational fields, a gaming center, retail space, restaurants, and lodging.

Project supporters estimate the racino could create 300 full-time jobs. The facility would be constructed with 100% union labor, according to advocates.

"Opportunities like this don't come around every day for Decatur," said Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe. "While we work really hard to grow our own success stories and make economic development happen, something like this is a game-changer."

City and county leaders said Decatur Downs could draw 1,000 new visitors on each race day.

The funding question

The racino would be privately funded. It would require no state dollars to build, according to proponents. The project would instead rely on private investment.

Why it stalled

The bill cleared the Senate last October with strong bipartisan support. It has not advanced in the House since then. The session clock is now running out.

"This is a crucial piece of legislation because it creates a unique opportunity for economic benefit in both counties located within the 48th district," said Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield). "There is also a commitment for infrastructure upgrades at the Illinois State Fairgrounds that will expand year-round training opportunities while strengthening the entire regional horse racing ecosystem."

What happens next

The Illinois General Assembly session ends May 31. The House must act on the bill by Sunday for it to move forward this session. If it fails, the proposal would need to be reintroduced next year.

For Decatur, a city that has struggled with economic transitions, the racino represents one of the largest potential development projects in recent memory. The outcome depends on whether House members can reach agreement before the deadline.