Saratoga's racing season is only days away, and this year both families and high rollers will have a few more bucks to put towards their favorite horse.
A track representative says the prices on most popular food and beverage items at the track have been "significantly" reduced.
Anyone who visits Saratoga Springs knows the city has character all year round, but this time of year, it's got something else; world renowned horse racing.
And spending a day at the track just got more affordable.
Melissa Brumley said, "I think it's great. I think it's fantastic, the more they can do to draw additional people to the area, and stimulate the local economy is fantastic."
And now, when Brumley and her family enjoy the races, it will cost less.
Last year the least expensive domestic beer available was a 20 oz. Coors Light for $6.75. This year a 12 oz. domestic will sell for $3.00.
Last year the least expensive imported beer was a 16 oz. Heineken for $8 dollars. This year a 12 oz. imported beer will sell for $4.00.
And in the 'fun food' department, lemonade is now a dollar less, dropping from $4.50 to $3.50, and the price of popcorn has also gone down, last year it was $4.50, now it's selling for $3.75.
But perhaps the biggest 'race changer' this year is the new value meal deal available in the backyard.
A visitor can choose a hot dog or slider, and grab some chips and a drink for just $5.
Stacy Marcelli has two children and says she'll be able to bring them to the track more often now.
"I think it will make it affordable for all families to be able to go out and enjoy the track, and enjoy the season, without you having to borrow from Peter to pay Paul," she said.
Frank White of Wilton agrees, "I think that's great. It will draw more family people to the track which is good, we need more family."
Bob Marchese says he thinks other venues should do the same. Marchese said, "It's a good idea. I think then entire country should follow this example."
Paul Viscusi has lived in Saratoga Springs for years. He said, "The economy is in tough shape, and every little bit will help. So I think people will utilize it (the track) more, yes."
And it's not just the prices at the track that are changing.
A track representative said many of the local popcorn and lemonade vendors will be gone this year, in part, to make way for a "cleaner, less cluttered" concourse.
Brumley said, "That's unfortunate to those individuals (local vendors) who had those opportunities available, but if it makes the venue better at the end of the day, that's fine."
In addition to the more streamlined concourse, the Ben & Jerry's operation at the track has expanded, Carvel Ice Cream is out, and a Dunkin' Donuts has been added at the venue.
However, there are still at least four local restaurants represented on the popular 'restaurant row.'
