2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
On December 6, 2005, it was announced the Lexington and Kentucky Horse Park will host the 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games in September and October. The 2010 games will mark the first time the games have been held outside of Europe. The games will include eight Olympic-level world championships that have never been held together in a single location outside of Europe, and is expected to attract an estimated 500,000 visitors and $100 million into the state's economy.
As part of the games, several improvements are slated.
- A new $36 million indoor arena that was approved in 2006 by the legislature.
- Enhancements to the arena's sound system.
- A resort hotel that would be constructed near the park. Bids from private developers have been received and are currently under review.
On February 1, 2007, Governor Ernie Fletcher announced that he will seek an additional $38.3 million in improvements to the park in preparation for the games and other major horse events. Included in his address to the 2007 General Assembly will include,
- $24 million for a new outdoor stadium that would feature 10,075 permanent seats but could be expanded to 30,325 temporarily for major events.
- $4 million for an additional 21,000 sq ft (2,000 m2). of exhibition space for vendors.
- $10.3 million for roadway improvements inside the park that would give the facility a second entrance via the campground. A wide loop road would be constructed so that events could be held on both sides of the horse park.
Construction on the segments of the expanded park, in preparation for the equestrian games, could start in April. A contract for the resort hotel could be awarded in the spring.
Read more about this topic: Kentucky Horse Park
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