Batavia  Downs rolls dice on major expansion plans

Batavia, N.Y. (WBEN) - Poised by an increase in patrons, Batavia Downs will undergo one of the largest expansion projects in its 86-year history.

Byron Brown, Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. president and CEO, confirmed that his organization has "fast tracked" plans to add at least 70 more hotel rooms to its existing 84-room hotel while also constructing a large scale event center and adding more parking options to its campus.

The former Buffalo mayor says he has already talked with various Genesee County and New York state officials about the plans and the response has been positive.

"It is a chance for us to grow," Brown said.

The work will be done in phases, with some of the construction expected to start next year.

"Our goal is to create a destination that attracts visitors, creates jobs and increases economic activity and ultimately products additional revenue for the communities we serve," said Crystal Rodriguez-Dabney, WROTBC chairperson.

On average, Batavia Downs attracts more than 800,000 visitors annually. That number continues to spike upwards.

Brown said last year - his first full year as WROTBC CEO and president, his organization distributed $12.8 million to its 17 member Western New York member municipalities. That was a 92% increase from 2024,

This year, Brown anticipates WROTBC will distribute more than $13 million to its member municipalities.

Through July 31 of this year, Batavia Downs has seen total gaming credits exceed $700 million.

"We've taken a very aggressive marketing approach and it is working," Brown said.

Taken together, the strong financials have served as the backdrop for the planned expansion, Brown said.

The hotel, for instance, is running at an 87% occupancy rate with many nights seeing it completely sold out.

While Batavia Downs does have an event center, there are times when bookings are turned away either because of previously committed events or the space is too small.

Brown said in the past three years, Batavia Downs has had to turn away 240 bookings because conflicts with available dates or the need for a larger venue.

The exact size of the special events center is still being worked on, Brown said.

"But, it will be large enough to handle more weddings, corporate events, special events and, even concerts," Brown said.

Batavia Downs features one of the oldest, lighted harness racing track along with its casino, hotel and restaurants

Former Buffalo Bill and Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Thurman Thomas has signed a three-year extension to serve as Batavia Downs ambassador.