Miami Valley Gaming, which Delaware North owns and operates in partnership with Churchill Downs Inc., has begun work on a $5 million expansion as the gaming and racing venue in Southwest Ohio continues to grow in popularity.

The project features the construction of a second outdoor gaming and smoking patio and a new high-limit area inside on the gaming floor. Once complete, the project will add over 100 video lottery terminal (VLT) gaming machines, bringing Miami Valley Gaming’s total number of VLTs to more than 1,800.

Delaware North’s Construction and Development Department is overseeing the work, which is expected to be completed by year’s end.

Since opening in December 2013, Miami Valley Gaming has seen ongoing growth in revenue to become one of the leading gaming and racing venues in Ohio. The popular entertainment destination is located halfway between Cincinnati and Dayton in a regional market with several other gaming and racing venues and full casinos.

“Overall, we’re very pleased with our continued success,” Jerry Abner, marketing director for Miami Valley Gaming, told the Dayton Daily News earlier this month. “It’s a very competitive market, so it speaks volumes that guests choose Miami Valley Gaming.”

(with files from Delaware North)