American land-based casinos taking advantage of online ban
Tuesday 12th June 2007
While online gambling in the United States is being attacked, land-based casinos across the country are expanding at exponential rates and the mid-western state of Iowa has become the latest to follow the trend.
In the future, the state’s 2.9 million people will be able to gamble at one of 20 sites across the state. Opening ceremonies will be held this month for two new casinos, in Burlington and Waterloo, with two other projects planned for Council Bluff.
'Catfish Bend Casino is opening its $35 million dollar complex at noon on Monday,' said Jerry Baum, the Burlington casino’s General Manager.
Located on US Highway 61 in the traditionally conservative state, it will offer 680 slot machines and 18 table games in addition to poker. The complex will also feature a bowling centre, conference facilities, restaurants, an indoor water park, an indoor go-cart attraction and an arcade.
'Isle of Capri Casinos plans to open on June 30,' said Kim Hardy, the Waterloo casino’s General Manager, before stating that this site would feature a pool, spa, nightclub and additional amenities at a cost of $175 million.
Ameristar Casinos and Harrah's Entertainment are also in competition in Western Iowa with each announcing expansion plans for their Council Bluffs properties. Ameristar is planning a $100 million expansion that the Iowa Race and Gaming Commission approved last week.
Last year, there was an $85 million expansion at the Horseshoe and the hotel addition should complement this expansion. The Waterloo gambling complex is the last of four casinos authorized by the State two years ago.
