The temporary casino located at Fonner Park racetrack in Grand Island, Nebraska, is set to undergo a significant expansion, approved by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission. The expansion project, which is expected to be completed by July 1, will introduce exciting additions to the gaming experience.
Enhanced Gaming Offerings
The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission’s approval comes with certain contingencies, such as securing building permits. The casino’s expansion plans include:
Additional Slot Machines: An additional 40 slot machines will be installed, further increasing the gaming options available to visitors.
Table Games: Six blackjack tables, a craps table, and a roulette table will be introduced, providing patrons with a wider range of gaming activities.
Improved Amenities and Entertainment
Vincent Fiala, General Manager of the casino, highlighted the importance of addressing guests’ needs during the expansion. He stated, “Most importantly for our guests is that we will have bathrooms on the casino floor, which is one of our largest concerns with our guests.”
In addition to the gaming enhancements, the expansion will bring about other improvements, including:
Restaurant Seating: More seating for the restaurant, enhancing the dining experience for visitors.
Enhanced Food and Beverage Area: A larger food and alcohol service area to cater to guests’ culinary preferences.
Entertainment Stage: A new stage for hosting entertainment events and performances.
Early Success
By the end of February, the Grand Island casino had already made a significant impact, generating over $1 million in gaming taxes in just a little over two months of operation, primarily through its slot machines.
Permanent Venue on the Horizon
The expansion is just a precursor to more ambitious plans for the permanent casino venue. The permanent facility will offer an impressive array of amenities, including:
A 37,000-square-foot casino floor with 650 slot machines and 20 table games.
A sportsbook to cater to sports enthusiasts.
Four restaurants, including a rooftop dining experience.
A show lounge and sports bar.
A 116-room boutique hotel.
A salon and spa for relaxation.
A gift shop for souvenirs.
An indoor and outdoor pool with a spacious deck.
A 400-stall parking garage for the convenience of guests.
Construction on the permanent venue is expected to commence after the 2023 state fair, with a projected opening date in 2025. This expansion represents a significant investment in the Grand Island area and is expected to further enhance the region’s entertainment and tourism offerings.