For years now, players in Pennsylvania and neighboring states have been anxiously awaiting the opening of a mini casino. In 2017, satellite casinos (mini casinos) were approved, and several operators were able to obtain licensing. These casinos are smaller than the ones already in operation in the state and offer an alternative for gambling. This week, The Cordish Companies announced that one of its two satellite casinos will be opening next month. The Live! Casino Pittsburgh has a tentative opening date set for November 24.
Almost Ready to Go
Despite the coronavirus pandemic, the construction of the new facility has continued, and it should be opening on November 24. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board must provide final approval before the venue can open its doors.
The new casino is located in the Westmoreland Mall at a former Bon-Ton department store. The casino will be two stories in size and will be the first mini casino to open in the state. The property will be home to 750 slot machines and 30 table games. Visitors can also access a sportsbook that is branded after FanDuel. Dining will be offered via several restaurants along with additional entertainment options.
The goal of the gambling venue is to bring players from Westmoreland County as well as areas in the southern portion of the state who don’t want to make the drive to the Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh or the Meadows Racetrack.
Helping the Community
With the opening of the new casino facility, around 500 permanent employment positions are expected to be offered to residents in the area. The property is still in the process of hiring employees. It is expected that once the casino is up and running, it will be able to bring around $188 million to the local economy.
With the opening date announcement, The Cordish Companies also announced invitation-only events. Before the grand opening takes place, there will be a few invite-only options so the casino and run through operations. Charity nights will be hosted on November 14 and 15. Sage’s Army and the Westmoreland County Food Bank will benefit from these fundraisers.
Because the casino is opening during a time when the coronavirus is still an issue in Pennsylvania, the property will have safety and health measures in place. Employees and guests will need to wear a mask while on-site. The venue will only operate at 50% capacity. It will adhere to restrictions involving alcohol sales and smoking.
When discussing the opening date, The Cordish Companies referenced its Play It Safe policy. This policy focuses on several areas of protection to ensure the spread of the virus is not an issue. Topics covered within the policy include cleaning of high-traffic areas, social distancing, mask wearing, and temperature checks.
Sean Sullivan is the General Manager of the new casino who said that they have gone through extraordinary measures to ensure the property meets and exceeds the COVID-19 guidelines of the state to ensure guests feel safe and have fun while on-site.
