Below is a statement from Boyd Gaming concerning a notice from earlier Monday that announced the Evangeline Downs meet scheduled to open April 8 would be postponed until further notice and that horses and stable staff would need to move off the grounds by 5 p.m. Central on Wednesday: 

"On Monday, March 16, the Louisiana Gaming Control Board ordered the temporary closure of all casinos in the state of Louisiana as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 disease.

"While there have been no reported cases at our property, in compliance with the Board’s order we are closing Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino tonight, March 16, by midnight. This closure will impact all public operations, including the casino, hotel, racetrack, restaurants, and meeting and entertainment venues.  Based on the Board’s order we expect to remain closed through Monday, March 30.

"Customers with reservations or events scheduled at Evangeline Downs during the closure period should call (866) 472-2466 for information and assistance.

"We will provide additional updates as they become available. We appreciate your business, and look forward to seeing you soon."