Casino News

NYS Commercial Casinos Remain Closed, Tribal Ones Thrive

The New York State hospitality and gaming field may have to go through some changes in the way they conduct their daily operation. Tioga Downs Casino Resort and Vernon Downs Casino Hotel recently made it clear that their hotel venues will have to once again close for business and cease to accept bookings. The decision came soon after Gov. Andrew Cuomo made an announcement regarding casino locations.

The state gaming field might have to wait a while longer before it is able to see the return of commercial casino in-person gaming. Gov. Cuomo recently made it clear that casino hotspots and movie theaters across the state will have to remain closed for the foreseeable future. For the time being, this measure is considered to be the most appropriate.

Reopening Postponed

Tribal casino locations across New York State have already commenced their reopening process and some of them have even welcomed their first casino patrons for the past four months of lockdown. Native American tribes collaborate with the state thanks to their own compacts regulating the gambling operation and they have the freedom to relaunch in-person gaming sooner than commercial venues.

However, the latter will still have to wait until they have been given permission to welcome back casino patrons on their premises. Phase four of the state reopening plan was supposed to give a green light to casino operation. Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs were the two locations paving the way to successful in-person casino operation. June 26 was a special date for the two locations.

That day witnessed the official opening of hotel towers adjacent to the entertainment complexes. The two locations were preparing for the upcoming reopening of casino gaming and they considered it most appropriate if their hospitality division is welcoming individuals on a daily basis. As Gov. Cuomo made it clear, this reopening of commercial locations will have to be postponed to a later date.

July 10 Sees New Policy

It should be taken into account that the state itself is being revived, as state officials approved the reopening of outdoor and indoor museums, zoos, art galleries, as well as historical sites. Tioga Downs made it clear that the hotel venue might be closing again, but the PJ Clarke’s restaurant is set to remain open and welcoming people both inside and on the patio.

In the meantime, Oneida Indian Nation is going to implement some additional safety measures for the individuals frequenting the three tribal casino venues. The casino management will temporarily prohibit everyone from smoking indoors while gambling, as this interferes with the wearing of masks. Moreover, facemasks will have to be worn at all times while players are engaging in gambling activities.

July 10 is expected to see the official implementation of this new measure at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, Yellow Brick Road Casino in Chittenango and Point Place Casino in Bridgeport. The decision was taken in accordance with the altered public health recommendations. Screening upon entering the premises of the casino will also remain mandatory.