Just a few days ago, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that commercial casinos in the state could get back to work. The Resorts World Casino New York City is one such venue that is excited to reopen. The economy will certainly see a turnaround when the venue opens later this week, after being shut down since March 16.
Getting Back to Business
Along with the casinos being excited about reopening, so are lawmakers. NY Senator Joseph Addabbo commented on the reopening announcement, stating that furloughed employees will now be able to return to their jobs and provide for their families. Residents will now be able to visit the gaming venues and enjoy the amenities during the trying time of the pandemic.
According to the senator, the casino reopenings will be an economic generator that provides not only revenues but also educational funding.
For Resorts World, it is unclear as to just how many people will be back at work when the casino reopens today. The casino can only allow up to 25% of its normal capacity and will stay this way until the government gives the go-ahead to allow more people.
Senator Addabbo is hopeful that the casino operations and Covid-19 positivity rates will be reviewed on a regular basis and then changes to operations are made in the positive.
Resorts World Reopening Plans
As the Resorts World Casino reopens today, parent company Genting Americas East, has big plans for strict protocols involving safety. Face coverings will be required and enforced at all times, except when drinking or eating. Social distancing is also required.
Additional staff members will be on hand to help control occupancy levels as well as traffic flow. Employees will be working on seating so that crowding is avoided. Cleaning and disinfecting methods will be enhanced to provide a safe environment and hopefully cut down on an transmission of the virus.
The state is also requiring that facilities install enhanced air filtration systems with quality purification standards. This is a way to help eliminate the virus in the air within the facility.
The casino will have six feet of space between gaming machines. The gaming floor will not offer beverage service or food items. This will help to cut down on exposure as players in this area will be wearing a mask at all times. The New York Gaming Commission will be on hand within the gaming venues to ensure that the safety measures are in place and are being enforced.
Scott Molina, the Resorts World Casino New York City President, commented that the casino will look different due to the 21-point plan instituted within the venue, but it was all done to ensure the health and safety of those inside.
By regulating the capacity of the casino floor, it will make it easier for players to social distance. Sanitation stations will allow for cleaning of table games and common areas of the casino in between use, to further promote a clean and healthy environment.
