United States Land-Based Casinos on the Rise06/12/2007 |
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Since the passing of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, which effectively bans all US financial institutions from processing payments from online gambling firms, land-based casinos have been expanding at an incredible rate, and the mid-western state of Iowa has become the latest to follow the trend.
The state’s current 2.9 million people will have the opportunity in the future to gamble at one of the 20 sites across the state. This month will showcase the opening ceremonies for two brand new casinos in Burlington and Waterloo, with another two projects planned for Council Bluff. Burlington Casino’s General Manager, Jerry Baum, said, “Catfish Bend Casino is opening its $35 million dollar complex at noon on Monday.” The new casinos will be located on US highway 61, and will offer 680 slot machines, 18 table games and a poker room. The casino will also feature a bowling centre, conference facilities, indoor water park, restaurants, indoor go-carting and an arcade. Waterloo Casino’s General Manager, Kim Hardy, said, “Isle of Capri Casinos plans to open on June 30, 2007 and will feature a pool, spa, nightclub and additional amenities. Harrah’s Entertainment and Ameristar Casinos are also in competition in western Iowa with each announcing expansion plans for their Council Bluff properties. Ameristar is planning a $100 million expansion that the Iowa Race and Gaming Commission approved just last week. The Waterloo gambling complex is the last of four casinos authorized by the state two years ago. Back to Latest Casino News |
