 |
| |
| Benoit & Associates photo |
Hollywood Park’s demise is outlined in a 244-page development plan at the Planning Commission for the city of Inglewood, California.
Like the heroes portrayed in movies made just a few miles away, Hollywood has escaped certain demise before. The current owner’s plan to develop mixed-use real estate on the site, however, continues to move forward.
Chris Jackson, a planner with the city of Inglewood, said ground could be broken on the project as early as the fourth quarter of 2009. Those plans include the end of racing, demolition of the one-million-square-foot grandstand and other racing structures, and construction of retail, office, and residential properties.
The mixed-use development calls for the 238-acre site to be transformed into a compact, walkable, mixed-use community where residents can live, shop, and enjoy recreation. The two current infield lakes would be relocated as part of a 25-acre park. The plan also could include a school, library, or community center.
The Hollywood Park Casino, which is not owned by the track, also will be demolished. It will be relocated on the project site, although its size will be reduced.
A first draft of the required environmental impact report has been completed. Public comment is being accepted before the final report is presented.
Hollywood is owned by Hollywood Park Land Co., a subsidiary of Bay Meadows Land Co. The current owner purchased Hollywood from Churchill Downs for $257.5-million in September 2005.
Churchill, which purchased Hollywood for $140-million six years earlier, used the money to pay down debt. The Hollywood Park Land Co. announced long-term plans to develop the site but said it would conduct racing until those plans became reality.
.
