Yesterday, Jeff Gural, owner of Tioga Downs Casino & Racing, one of the losing bids in the competition for a casino license in New York, pointed out that he and his partners will take full advantage of the second chance they were given and will do their best to win the license in question.
Mr. Gural shared that he had joined forces with local officials and the management team of Traditions at the Glen so as to be able to bring to the Broome County area and its residents what they really need.
Bill Walsh, owner of the Traditions at the Glen, which was yet another venue not to get the nod from the New York Gaming Facility Location Board, stated that the region will only benefit from the location of a gambling venue.
Mr. Gural’s proposal for a casino resort will generate more than 650 jobs. He has repeatedly pointed out that his intention is not to put money in his pocket but to help the community.
Senator Tom Libous, who is apparently one of the officials that support the Tioga Downs project, shared that a fund of $1.5 million will be created out of contributions from the casino venue so as for local non-profit organizations and businesses to be given financial help whenever they need it.
Mr. Gural added that $11 million are planned to be spent on various amenities. For instance, the new application for a casino license includes a second restaurant, a climbing wall, and a miniature golf course. Yet, he pointed out that he needs additional information, in order to be able to complete the proposal. Within weeks, Mr. Gural will receive a report on why New York gaming regulators decided not to back his application.
It seems that the state regulator is encouraging other real estate developers to place their bids as well. Mr Gural, however, does not believe that he will have any competition. He shared that he is well-acquainted with the fifteen losing bids and that he is certain they will not join the race this time.
Gaming regulators stated on a Tuesday meeting that they cannot promise they will grant a fourth license.
Mr. Gural said that he is optimistic about the outcome. This is why he is determined to make certain significant adjustments once he is informed what he is wanted to do.
He also shared that he was really shocked when the board announced its original decision. As previously reported, the New York Gaming Facility Location Board decided to award three instead of four casino licenses. The winning bids were the proposed venues in Schenectady, Sullivan County, and Tyre.
