The final steps toward the opening of Fair Grounds’ new slot-machine gaming facility later this month will begin in less than 48 hours.

The temporary facility, which has been in operation since September 2007, will close its doors at midnight Sunday. Beginning Monday, the 250 machines from the temporary facility will be moved into the new facility, which is about 100 yards away.

The grand opening of the new facility is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 14. The Louisiana Gaming Control Board approved the opening of the facility at its October meeting, but other regulatory agencies, including the Louisiana State Police’s Gaming Division, must give approval before the new facility can open.

Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots, the nation’s third-oldest Thoroughbred racing facility, has been in operation since 1872. Located in New Orleans, Fair Grounds is owned by Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ Global Select Market: CHDN); it also operates a slot-machine gaming facility and nine off-track betting parlors throughout southeast Louisiana. Fair Grounds’ 137th Thoroughbred season will run from Nov. 14, 2008, through March 29, 2009, and its inaugural Quarter Horse meet was conducted from Aug. 20-24, 2008. Information about Fair Grounds can be found on the Internet at www.fairgroundsracecourse.com.