02/16/2011 - What do you think about the new Casinos?
4 new casinos make bid for area patrons
Randy Tucker
Posted: 02/14/2011 7:11 AM
DAYTON — Whether or not Dayton becomes the site for a thoroughbred racing track, more gambling venues will soon be within easy reach for area residents.
The economic benefit to the region is difficult to gauge.
When the Horseshoe Casino, now under construction in downtown Cincinnati, opens late next year, it will bring with it the promise of new jobs, tourism and statewide tax benefits. But most of the economic activity generated by the Cincinnati casino and three other Ohio casinos set to open next year in Columbus, Cleveland and Toledo will be confined to the host cities, which could suck hospitality and leisure dollars from other cities, including Dayton and .
“I’m sure everybody’s going to have to go check them (casinos) out; we might see a little bit of a drop-off in the beginning,” said Shanon Morgan, president of the Miami Valley Restaurant Association. “But I don’t think it’s going to greatly affect us in Dayton. I haven’t heard any of our members stressing about it.”
Still, even a modest slowdown in consumer spending could have a destabilizing effect in the local area. There’s little doubt in the minds of most experts that the Cincinnati casino, which is expected to attract six million people a year, will be a major draw for area residents.
“Casinos are magnets for people within a 60-mile radius, and Dayton would be part of Cincinnati’s bread-and-butter market,’’ said Joe Weinert, an industry analyst with Spectrum Gaming Group in New Jersey.
While gambling remains the main attraction, the possible development of glitzy new bars, restaurants and shopping venues has added to the appeal of new casinos coming online in recent years.
The Cincinnati casino, developed by Caesars Entertainment Corp. and Cleveland-based Rock Gaming, will be no exception. But much of its appeal also will be tied to its partnerships with already established eating and drinking establishments near the casino, said Kevin Kline, senior vice president and general manager.
“It’s all very connected, and it’s all about the opportunity to really integrate our business with the other businesses, attractions and activities that happen in downtown Cincinnati,” Kline said.
According to Spectrum’s Weinert, the casino opening will be just the beginning of that integration.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2437 or rtucker@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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