Grand Island Casino Resort Receives Approval To Add Table Games To Extended Gaming Floor
The Grand Island Casino Resort, operated by Elite Casino Resorts LLC, has achieved uncontested approval from the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission to expand its gaming offerings. The temporary casino, which had its grand opening ceremony on Friday, August 18th, has successfully gained permission to introduce additional attractions to its extended gaming floor.
The expansion includes the incorporation of various new table games: a craps table, five blackjack tables, one Texas hold 'em poker table, and one roulette table. Additionally, the casino will add 46 extra slot machines to its gaming floor. These enhancements were made possible through a validation process that received the green light from the Nebraska regulator.
During the presentation to the regulatory commission, Sharon Haselhoff, Regional Vice President for Elite Casino Resorts, was questioned about the timeline for implementing the table games. With a touch of humor, she responded, "We're thinking 6 o'clock," a response that turned out to be quite accurate. Shortly after receiving approval, Haselhoff mentioned that the tables would indeed be operational by the dinner hour.
Preparations for the introduction of the new games had been underway. The staff at the temporary casino had already set up the tables, complete with orange felt, earlier in the week. They had also conducted a dress rehearsal to ensure a smooth launch.
This approval is a significant milestone for the casino-resort, as it marks the introduction of the "first live table games ever offered in the state of Nebraska." Chairman Dennis Lee expressed the significance of this achievement, particularly in relation to the casino's location at Fonner Park. Fonner Park's CEO, Chris Kotulak, emphasized that this moment is important not only for the casino and Grand Island but also for the entire state of Nebraska. He highlighted that the addition of live table games, expanded menu options, and live entertainment on weekends would contribute to revitalizing the Nebraska Thoroughbred racing and agriculture industries.
In addition to the expansion of table games, the temporary casino also secured approval for its sports wagering offerings. The regulatory commission extended the sports wagering catalog, allowing the casino to officially launch its sports wagering kiosk within the extended casino area. This enhancement includes futures wagering and coverage of events such as World Boxing Association bouts and men's and women's FIFA World Cup Soccer matches.
While the casino-resort continues to operate from its temporary location, the addition of table games, sports betting, and a total of 347 slot machines brings a new level of entertainment to Nebraska. Haselhoff stressed that the goal is to create an environment that offers guests more than just gaming – a comprehensive resort experience that adds to the allure of the establishment.