Pimlico transfer to state ownership given final approval days before 149th Preakness Stakes

The transfer of Pimlico Race Course from private ownership to the state of Maryland received final approval Wednesday, marking the final step for the historic site of the Preakness Stakes to undergo a yearslong renovation and, starting in 2027, be run by a state-owned nonprofit.

The Maryland Board of Public Works — consisting of Gov. Wes Moore, Comptroller Brooke Lierman and Treasurer Dereck Davis, all Democrats — unanimously approved the transfer after Moore last week signed a new state law paving the way for its consideration.