Plainridge Park Casino, Massachusetts’ first gambling venue, had its soft opening on Monday, June 22. The venue opened doors for several thousand people, who were invited by the casino operator so that last equipment tests are performed two days before the official opening ceremony.
James McHugh, member of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, was among the lucky ones to be allowed a glimpse into the gambling property. Mr. McHugh commented that the state has imposed the most restrictive gambling laws, as a large portion of what its casinos generate would be contributed to the treatment and prevention of gambling-related conditions.
Furthermore, they would pay higher revenue taxes. Mr. McHugh also pointed out that casinos would not offer free alcoholic drinks and smoking would not be allowed within their premises. The smoking ban was among the most controversial provisions in the state’s gambling bill, signed by the Legislature in 2011. Under this bill, Massachusetts was allowed to host three fully-fledged casinos and one slot parlor.
However, some of the visitors who were invited to Plainridge Park Casino’s soft opening said that they actually liked the full smoking ban. They also noted that the property made a good first impression, as it is comfortable enough, the machines are new, and its location just off Route 1 is convenient.
The slot parlor features a total of 1,250 slot machines and several electronic table games, such as poker, roulette, blackjack, etc. According to the latest information, up to 1,500 players can place their bets at the same time.
Apart from the gaming options, the property also offers to customers a number of dining and entertainment ones, with the Flutie’s Sports Bar and the Revolution Lounge being among those.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission, too, expressed satisfaction with the general performance of the property’s amenities. Yet, a final decision as to whether Plainridge Park Casino will have its official opening on Wednesday will be issued late on Tuesday.
Tomorrow, the slot parlor will be tested once again, but no players will be involved. This time, the focus will be on how employees handle the money generated at the property. A little less than 500 people have been hired to serve different positions at Plainridge Park Casino.
Gambling operator Penn National Gaming spent a total of $225 million on the construction of the gaming facility, about two times more than the minimum investment required under the Massachusetts casino law, which was introduced in 2011. Once launched, the property will be open 24 hours a day. Furthermore, no alcoholic beverages will be served after 1 am.
