The deal comes down to preserving jobs and a facility, which has been hurting bad over the last several years.
A new plan announced by the New York State Gaming Commission created by Gov. Andrew Cuomo would ensure that thoroughbred racing at the Farmington track continues.
It’s a two-year plan, which will have the option for a third — should it be necessary. The reason for the move is the opening of the del Lago Resort & Casino in Tyre, which is expected to hurt Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack’s performance.
The proposal would maintain the 145 day race season with eight races happening per day. The average per-race purse for the 2017 and 2018 seasons would be $13,690, an increase of $466 from last season.
Delaware North, which operates the Farmington track will commit between $600,000 and $1 million. That figure would depend on the success of video lottery at the facility.
del Lago would contribute $440,000 to the track. That money would have gone to Tioga Downs — but since that facility became commercial — the funds will have a new destination.
Under the deal, horsemen would also guarantee an average number of entries per race at Finger Lakes and Finger Lakes will discuss racing surfaces with the breeders and state — who will consider economic development monies for any projects.
It’s unclear how the move will impact the track this year.
