Pimlico Race Course transformation remains on schedule for the 2027 Preakness Stakes in Baltimore. However, spectators will return before the permanent clubhouse opens, reports Baltimore Chronicle.
2027 Preakness will return to Pimlico during construction
Maryland officials expect the 152nd Preakness Stakes to return to Pimlico Race Course in spring 2027. The race moved to Laurel Park for 2026 while crews rebuilt the historic Baltimore venue.
Most essential racing infrastructure should be operating by the event. However, the new clubhouse is scheduled to open for the 2028 Preakness. The Maryland Stadium Authority confirms this phased timeline.
Organizers expect the 2027 event to rely heavily on the infield and temporary facilities. Current planning assumes capacity for approximately 20,000 spectators.
Key conditions expected in 2027 include:
- no completed permanent clubhouse;
- extensive temporary seating and hospitality areas;
- limited access near the front stretch;
- continued construction across parts of the property.
Officials describe the event as a unique construction Preakness. Its final layout will depend on progress during the coming months.
What the $400 million redevelopment includes
Maryland authorized up to $400 million in state bonds for Pimlico’s redevelopment and related racing infrastructure. The investment aims to secure the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore and consolidate Maryland thoroughbred racing.
| Project element | Expected status |
|---|---|
| Racing surface | Ready for 2027 |
| Infield areas | Used for spectators |
| Temporary hospitality | Installed for Preakness |
| Permanent clubhouse | Expected in 2028 |
| Restaurants and bars | Added during later phases |
| Historical exhibition | Planned for the completed venue |
The clubhouse will include gathering areas, a restaurant, a sports bar and meeting spaces. Officials estimate their combined indoor capacity at about 1,500 people.
Park Heights residents demand lasting benefits
Community representatives want the project to deliver more than a rebuilt racetrack. Residents have called for local hiring, minority business participation and safer public spaces.
They also want surrounding parcels developed carefully. Priorities include vacant housing, public safety and stronger connections between Pimlico and Park Heights.
Construction has brought dust and noise to nearby streets. Still, residents say continued participation remains their main concern. They have requested another public meeting before the 2027 Preakness.
The redevelopment plan also proposes year-round community uses and stronger links between surrounding neighborhoods.
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