(Edited Keeneland Association report)

Lexington, Ky. – Keeneland has made numerous improvements to parking lots and roads and will utilize a shuttle in an effort to improve the flow of traffic into and out of the racetrack during the Oct. 9-31 fall meeting.

“This is the result of the master planning process and the first step in enhancing the patron experience,” said Keeneland President Nick Nicholson.  “From an operational standpoint, it’s our top priority for the fall meeting—to get people in quicker, parked quicker and out quicker.”

Keeneland removed the median from a large segment of the road which connects Gate 1 at the intersection of Man o’
War Boulevard with the track’s numerous parking lots. This modification will allow as many as five lanes of traffic to exit through Gate 1.

A road system has been built on the hillside so cars can be parked from two directions. Two rows of parking strips have been widened and a curb installed to facilitate the movement of a shuttle, which will carry patrons from parking lots to the East Entrance of the Grandstand.  The 100-person shuttle—the same one used at the Kentucky State Fair—will make numerous stops, each identified by a sign. Many of the stops are equipped with green and white canopies and benches to provide shelter from sun and rain.

Additional personnel will be employed throughout the property to direct traffic and park customers. Electronic signs also will be in place on Versailles Road to guide drivers.  

“This is the first tangible result of the master planning process,” continued Nicholson. “Last April we brought in traffic and parking professionals to advise us as to how to improve the traffic flow and parking. All of these changes are the result of many hours of meetings with parking supervisors, security staff, local and state officials. Our goal is to move cars in and out of Keeneland in a more efficient manner while reducing the impact of race-day traffic on the many people of Central Kentucky who use Versailles Road (U.S. 60).”

Keeneland provides valet parking for clubhouse members and their guests, preferred parking ($5 on Wednesdays and Thursdays; $10 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays) and unlimited free parking.

People who wish to tailgate are encouraged to use the gatehouse lot, which has a separate entrance off Versailles Road just a few hundred yards before Gate 2.

Established in 2007, the tailgating area has become a destination spot for many patrons. Keeneland will provide additional amenities each Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the meet, weather permitting, including a larger wagering tent featuring flat panel televisions, and upscale restroom trailers.