In a statement issued on Friday (March 13) management at Monticello Raceway announced that the track and its simulcast area would close for the rest of the month.
"Ensuring the health and welfare of our patrons, horsemen and employees is our top priority and we therefore will cease live racing and simulcasting beginning Monday, March 16 as a result of the COVID-19 virus. Our plan is to reopen Monday, March 30, but we will continue to closely monitor developments and rely on guidance from the CDC as well as state and local health officials.
"During the down time, the Simulcasting Room, Racing Paddock, Race Office, and common areas will undergo a deep cleaning and sanitization process."
Monticello joins Cal Expo, Dover Downs, Freehold Raceway, Meadowlands Racetrack, The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono and Yonkers Raceway as U.S. harness racing tracks that have recently changed access policies amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Cal Expo will race this weekend but only allowing "essential employees and licensees" access to the facility.