Spring is upon us midwesterners, and with it comes the imminent opening of the newest Illinois casino.
Just two months ago, the Golden Nugget casino in Danville made good on a few elements of its community agreement signaling the property was close to cutting the ribbon.
Now, the Danville casino appears to be in the home stretch.
Golden Nugget Danville in final preparations
While there’s no opening date set, Golden Nugget Danville is nearing the end of its preparations. All signs point to a spring 2023 opening.
According to the News-Gazette, the property has delivered a status report. It said 75% of the slot machines have arrived, in addition to nearly all of the restaurant equipment. Hiring continues, and the process is “hot and heavy.” As of April 12, the table games were expected to arrive the following week. By now, they’re almost certainly ready for Danville-area gamblers to enjoy.
In simple terms, most of the logistics — physical tables and machines, equipment, hiring the right people — are well underway or already done. But Golden Nugget Danville still has some hurdles to clear.
Approval still needed from a few levels of government
When the Golden Nugget casino is ready to open, it’s not quite as simple as opening the doors and letting gamblers in. First, the property has to apply for a certificate of occupancy and a public-health certification.
After that, the Illinois Gaming Board can begin testing the property. Then, after the Golden Nugget Danville clears that step, the property will be approved to open.
General Manager Juris Basens said: “When we fulfill all our obligations with the gaming board and we have a mutually agreed-upon date with the gaming board, we’ll announce that with a press release.”
Waiting for the opening with bated breath? Keep an eye out for that press release. We’ll let you know as soon as we have it here at PlayIllinois, too.
Golden Nugget faces some community concerns
As the Golden Nugget Danville prepares to open, ABC 20 reported on some concerns from Alpha Omega Counseling Services.
Kerric Kiley, the organization’s president and sirector, said,”As you increase access, you could increase use.”
Kiley and Alpha Omega believe the convenience of Golden Nugget’s new location could lead to increased issues with problem gambling. To combat such potential problems in Danville and across the state, Alpha Omega has partnered with the Illinois Department of Human Services to develop a campaign to fight problem gambling.
“Are You Really Winning?” features a short screener survey that can help gamblers determine whether their gambling is becoming a problem. The campaign also includes various resources and testimonials aimed at curbing the rise of problem gambling. The problem gambling hotline and text line are also readily displayed on the website.
As the Golden Nugget opening nears, it’s helpful to know where these resources are in case you or someone you know could benefit from them.
