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Competition heats up in western Pennsylvania
Anew casino in western Pennsylvania is expected to grab a large share of the region's gaming revenue.
The $800m Rivers Casino, a joint venture by Walton Street Capital, High Pitt Gaming and Don Barden, will be a competitor for the area's currently dominant pair of racinos - the Meadows, southeast of Pittsburgh, and the Mountaineer complex just over the state line in New Cumberland, West Virginia.
With 3000 slots, it is forecast to take $400m revenue in its first year. The casino's owners plan to add a further 1000 slots around the end of 2009, bringing the total to 4000, with long-term plans for the figure to reach 5000.
While the number of gaming locations in Pennsylvania has been growing in recent years, most development has been in the east of the state. Currently, only slots are permitted, although state authorities are considering legalisation of table games.
