Solving South Florida’s Racing Crisis: Why Lake Placid is the Perfe...

The looming closure of Gulfstream Park is shaking the foundation of horse racing in South Florida. With The Stronach Group (TSG) pivoting towards maximizing the value of Gulfstream’s land—estimated between $1 and $2 billion—the industry is left with a critical question: what’s next for Florida’s horse racing tradition?

While Palm Meadows in Boynton Beach has been suggested as an alternative, it presents challenges like zoning issues, accessibility concerns, and the need for substantial investment. The answer may lie in Lake Placid, Florida—a location uniquely suited to reimagine the future of horse racing.

Why Lake Placid Stands Out

Lake Placid, often called the "Town of Murals," offers an incredible opportunity to build a state-of-the-art horse racing facility while fostering a supportive, equestrian-friendly community. Lake Placid has substantial land as citrus groves are disappearing opening a new oppotunities for developing. Here’s why it’s the perfect solution:

1. Strategic Location

Lake Placid is centrally located in Florida, just 20 minutes from the new Seminole Casino. Its proximity to major highways makes it easily accessible for spectators, trainers, and horse owners from across the state.

2. Abundance of Land

Thousands of acres of high, dry land are available in Lake Placid, including my featured listing at 501 US 27 S, LakePlacid, FL. This expansive property is perfect for commercial development, residential communities, or even a large-scale racing venue.

Beyond this listing, I have access to hundreds of additional lots and land in the region, ready for equestrian development, horse-friendly neighborhoods, and supporting commercial businesses.

3. Community Support

Lake Placid’s local government and residents are highly receptive to innovative projects that drive economic growth. A horse racing facility in the area would bring jobs, boost tourism, and position Lake Placid as a cornerstone of Florida’s equestrian legacy.

A Vision for the Future of Racing

Building a new racetrack in Lake Placid isn’t just about preserving horse racing—it’s about elevating it. Imagine a world-class facility featuring:

Modern Grandstands: A 10,000-seat grandstand with luxury suites and high-tech amenities for fans. Possibly even a covered track to keep it shaded for hot weather days.
Comprehensive Training Centers: Space for elite trainers like Todd Pletcher, Chad Brown, Steve Asmussen, and Bill Mott to continue their work in Florida.
Equestrian-Friendly Communities: Residential neighborhoods designed for horse owners, with stables, trails, and access to top-tier facilities.
Integrated Entertainment and Tourism: The proximity to the Seminole Casino opens the door for collaboration, attracting a broader audience for year-round events.

Industry Support is Key

The success of this vision requires collaboration from the racing community’s most influential players. Key names like Mike Repole, a leading owner and breeder, and organizations such as the Florida Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (FHBPA) could play critical roles in funding and championing this initiative.

This project would also benefit from the involvement of Florida’s top trainers and owners, including Brad Cox, Mark Casse, and Stonestreet Stables, who have long been pillars of the racing industry.

Lake Placid: A Community Ready to Welcome Horse Racing

Lake Placid offers more than just land—it offers a partnership. The community understands the economic and cultural value of horse racing and is eager to embrace projects that enhance the region’s reputation as a hub for equestrian excellence.

Whether it’s providing support for zoning, streamlining development processes, or welcoming equestrian communities, Lake Placid is ready to roll out the red carpet.

Join the Movement

The time to act is now. Gulfstream Park’s closure would be a devastating loss, but it also presents an opportunity to create something even greater. Lake Placid offers the land, location, and community support needed to build the future of horse racing in Florida.

Let’s make this vision a reality. Explore the potential of my featured property at 501 US 27 S, Lake Placid, FL, and let’s discuss the possibilities with hundreds of additional lots and land available to bring this vision to life.

Let’s turn this challenge into an opportunity and secure a bright future for horse racing in South Florida, starting in Lake Placid.

Contact me anytime to discuss 561-325-0012.

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