Echo Park Speedway in Hampton, Georgia, is pursuing a high-stakes gamble of its own. Formerly known as Atlanta Motor Speedway, the racetrack has announced an ambitious proposal to build a $1 billion resort and casino complex on its grounds—a plan that could reshape the state’s tourism and entertainment industries but one that faces significant legal barriers.

According to Speedway President Ed Clark, the development would extend far beyond just a casino. Plans include a large-scale resort, convention facilities, an amusement park, and the casino itself as the anchor attraction. Clark, who revealed the project has been under consideration for more than six years, said the economic boost could be transformative for Henry County and the state at large.

“We’re looking at something in the neighborhood of a $1-billion facility,” Clark explained, noting that construction alone could generate about 3,000 jobs. Once operational, the project is projected to provide between 2,500 and 3,000 full- and part-time positions.

Clark stressed that the proposal could also prevent Georgia from losing gaming-related revenue to neighboring states. “Sixty-five thousand-plus people from Georgia go out of the state each month to another state to do gaming, and that’s revenue the state’s losing that could be used for health care, education,” he said, according to Fox 5 Atlanta.

Lawmakers Weigh Potential Benefits

For the project to proceed, Georgia’s long-standing ban on casino gambling must be lifted. That process would require legislative approval for a constitutional amendment, a statewide referendum, and county-level approval. Over the years, similar attempts have stalled in the General Assembly.

However, proponents see fresh momentum in the newly formed House Study Committee on Gaming. Clark made his case to the committee in late July, where some lawmakers expressed cautious optimism.

State Rep. Alan Powell underscored how casino tax revenue could aid struggling healthcare systems. “That money could be used for Medicare, it could be used for nursing schools, it could be used for anything healthcare related. Aid to rural hospitals who are in trouble,” Powell said.

Committee Chair Rep. Marcus Wiedower has also argued that legalizing gambling could expand resources to help address problem gambling, an issue that both sides acknowledge as a central concern.

The committee will meet again on August 25, with three more sessions scheduled before presenting findings to lawmakers in January.

Fierce Opposition from Faith and Community Leaders

Despite the promise of jobs and revenue, strong opposition remains. Critics argue that the costs of expanded gambling far outweigh the potential benefits.

Mike Griffin of the Georgia Baptist Mission Board warned of broad social consequences. “When gambling increases, crime goes up, bankruptcies go up, addiction goes up, jobs go down, savings go down, and spending on basics go down,” Griffin said.

Paul Smith, representing Citizen Impact USA, raised concerns about the impact on Georgia’s most vulnerable residents. “According to Gamblers Anonymous, one-third of addicted gamblers attempt suicide. Gambling addiction disproportionately affects our most vulnerable communities here in Georgia,” Smith said. He cited past state data showing millions already spent on addressing gambling-related problems.

An Uncertain Road Ahead

For now, Echo Park Speedway’s vision remains aspirational. While the facility currently hosts about 400 events each year, Clark believes the proposed resort could turn the property into a premier entertainment destination. Still, with lawmakers divided and voters holding the final say, the project faces a long legislative and public approval process.

Clark acknowledged the challenges but insisted the company’s resolve has not wavered. “While disappointed at the pace things have gone, they’re committed for the long haul to see this through,” he said.

As Georgia debates the future of legalized gambling, Echo Park Speedway’s billion-dollar gamble is already sparking heated conversations about the state’s economic future, public health, and cultural values.