Press release:
Batavia Downs Casino is pleased to announce that its 27 million dollar expansion has been approved by the New York State Lottery. The expansion, which is slated to begin immediately, will consist of repairs to the roof, replacement of the facility’s neon sign with an energy-efficient LED one, and most notably, the facility’s second-story gaming floor will be brought down to ground level.
The project is expected to be one of the largest construction projects in Western New York this year.
“We are pleased to begin this long-anticipated project," said Mike Kane, president of Western Regional Off-Track Betting and Batavia Downs Casino. “The construction will create jobs both during the building of our new facility and inside the casino once the expansion is completed."
Since 2005, Batavia Downs Casino has contributed more than 107 million dollars to New York State Education through the lottery and more 71 million has been distributed to the 15 counties of Western New York and the two cities of Buffalo and Rochester.
"The expansion will add about 200 machines to the gaming floor, and we expect an increase in the yearly payments given back to the citizens of New York State," Kane said.
New restaurants will also be added to the facility.
“The Thurman Thomas Sports Bar will give local sports fans a new, unique place to cheer on their favorite teams while enjoying food, drink and local musical entertainment” said Director of Marketing Ryan Hasenauer.
The Tim Horton’s currently on the second floor would be expanded once it occupies its new space on the first floor. Batavia Downs Casino’s Ambassador will have his own space on-site as well.
Hats off to the state. Since
Hats off to the state. Since arresting a few people for assisting people in gambling there must be a void. So the state saw a gap in the need for gambling and they're going to fill it.
Terry - you don't understand,
Terry - you don't understand, the state does not get a take from the guys arrested.
The state has a hard time getting industry to locate in NY so they get additional revenue from the people who can least afford it.
WAY TO GO HOMETOWN BATAVIA
WAY TO GO HOMETOWN BATAVIA DOWNS!
It is a growth industry. BD
It is a growth industry. BD has increased it's net revenue every year it has been in operation. Most people don't know that all the machines only return 92% (by State Law). So eventually you will lose, but that is the cost of entertainment. It has brought a lot of jobs and people to Batavia, so it is a good thing.
I agree TP but we will always
I agree TP but we will always have our nay-Sayers complain about jobs, and complain when there is no jobs. Some family will be able to buy groceries because of this expansion.Nobody is being forced to seek their entertainment there, if you can't afford it then stay out it's an adult decision to go in that's why it is ADULTS ONLY.
TP and SW, Just think of the
TP and SW,
Just think of the bucks people will save not having to fly to Vegas to lose money, they will have more to lose in New York state and just might spend money in local establishements to boot. Winning is the catch word here for Batavia.
I don't understand why people
I don't understand why people have to be negative about something so good for Batavia. If you don't gamble, don't go! If people want to waste their money, who cares. Most people go for the evening for a little fun. Congratulations to Batavia Downs!
Sounds like good news to me,
Sounds like good news to me, and Greg hit the nail on the head, it is entertainment for most of the patrons.
The problem gamblers will waste their money with or without this expansion.