Opening of Parx Racing turf course pushed to spring 2027 * The Racing Biz

Opening of Parx Racing turf course pushed to spring 2027

Parx has not had a turf course since 2024

The Biz
July 10, 2026

The Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (PTHA) announced that the foundation phase of the new Parx Racing turf course has been completed, but installation of the new sod has been pushed back until after this year’s Pennsylvania Derby.

In an update to members posted to social media July 10, PTHA Executive Director Jeffrey A. Matty Jr. said the completed work includes installation of a new deep-water well, a new water pump, upgraded irrigation systems, and the complete removal of the former turf course surface.

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According to the PTHA, those infrastructure improvements are intended to provide the foundation for a durable racing surface for years to come.

The organization said turf specialists Hummer Turf Systems and C6 Turf Management recommended delaying sod installation. As a result, work that had originally been scheduled for earlier this year will now begin Monday, Sept. 21, immediately after the Pennsylvania Derby.

Matty acknowledged that the original installation timeline encountered “a few setbacks out of anyone’s control” but said the association remains optimistic about the project and expects to welcome turf racing back to Parx in the spring of 2027.

In his message, Matty thanked the project’s partners as well as local and state officials for their support in moving the project forward.

“We remain excited about the progress being made and look forward to welcoming the return of turf racing in Spring 2027 on a turf course that will benefit our horsemen, jockeys, owners, and fans for many years to come,” Matty wrote.

Parx has not conducted turf racing since 2024, when the course was closed, with horsemen complaining of holes in the surface and other inconsistencies. The current project is designed to replace the aging surface and modernize the underlying irrigation and water infrastructure before a new course is established.