On Thursday, December 19 at Assiniboia Downs, the Peguis First Nation announced a deal it has reached with the Manitoba Jockey Club for a $100-million development.
A report by the Winnipeg Sun states that the Peguis Development Corporation is planning on building a convention centre and a pair of hotels in a parking lot that is situated between the track and the MTS Iceplex.
The article has cited Peguis First Nation Chief Glenn Hudson as saying that he is planning on initiating discussions which would lead to a casino being erected at the development. He was also cited as saying that he hopes the PFN can own the entire track one day.
A report by Global News states that the Peguis First Nation is also looking to erect buildings for retail in the same area.
The Global News article that the partnership between the MJC and the PFN will be under the ‘FN Developments Inc.’ banner. More details on the project are expected to be announced early in 2014.
It was reported earlier this week that the PFN 'bought' Assiniboia Downs from the MJC on September 17. In turn, the Manitoba Horse Racing Commission has threatened to suspend simulcast wagering at the raceway effective January 1 if it doesn't receive specific details about the deal. It has been reported that the deal is worth $15-million and it includes a 25-year, interest-free mortgage.
The racing-license threat from the MHRC has caused the MJC to file an application for a judicial review of the commission's actions.
(With files from Global News and the Winnipeg Sun)