The Arlington Million

By: Robert O'NeillArlington International Racecourse turned a profit in 1994, the first time since it reopened in 1989 after a devastating fire. Much of it came from off-track betting parlors. Betting on Arlington's races increased 18 percent between 1993 and 1994 to $512.7 million.

• Annual attendance: 1.3 million

• Annual payroll: $40 million

• Economic activity generated: $119 million, including $5 million for local hotels

• Local taxes: $5.3 million

• State taxes: $19.6 million

Sources: Arlington International Racecourse, Illinois Racing Board and the Village of Arlington Heights. Figures are the most recent available: state taxes are for 1990; attendance for 1992; local taxes for 1994; economic activity for 1994.