Study: Oaklawn, Southland racetracks' impact on Arkansas near $900M

Gaming is big business in the state of Arkansas.

Between the state’s two racetrack and gambling venues – Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs and Southland Park in West Memphis – the gaming industry contributed nearly $900 million to Arkansas’ economy in 2012, according to a study by BaxStarr Consulting Group LLC.

Arkansas Business reports the study measured economic impacts linked to racing and gambling ($703 million), taxes paid ($42.5 million), tourism ($120 million) and short-term construction ($30 million) for a total of $895.5 million.

In the race between the two tracks, Southland’s dog racing came out ahead, with $400.8 million credited toward revenue, and induced and indirect impact. Horse racing at Oaklawn generated $219.8 million in revenue, and induced and indirect impact.

The report said the findings validate some of the reasoning behind a 2006 vote in favor of allowing the venues to have electronic games of skill.
 
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