Nebraska’s gaming landscape is undergoing a transformation as the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission gives its nod to a gaming license for a temporary casino at Ag Park in Columbus. This marks a significant step in the state’s burgeoning gambling industry, with the temporary facility set to become the third state-licensed casino in Nebraska. Scheduled to open its doors next month, the casino will provide a range of gaming options for local residents.
The Harrah’s Columbus Racing and Casino:
General Manager Don Ostert has announced the casino’s anticipated opening date of June 12.
The temporary casino will be located at the existing horse racing track in Columbus and will operate daily from 9 am to 1 am.
The facility will offer 250 slot machines and electronic table games.
The casino is actively recruiting staff, with positions available for cashiers, count room employees, slot attendants, and slot technicians.
Future Expansion with Caesars Entertainment:
Caesars Entertainment is planning to introduce a 28,000-square-foot Harrah’s casino and sportsbook in Columbus.
The new facility will feature more than 500 slot machines and 14 table games.
This expansion underscores the growing interest in gaming and entertainment offerings in Nebraska.
The Wider Context:
The approval of the Ag Park casino comes after Nebraska voters passed a constitutional amendment in November 2020, allowing casinos at the state’s horse racetracks.
Six licensed horse tracks in locations such as Lincoln, Omaha, South Sioux City, Columbus, Grand Island, and Hastings have all announced plans to incorporate casinos.
Additionally, six more racetracks have proposed new casino projects in Bellevue, Gering, Kimball, Norfolk, North Platte, and York, indicating a strong appetite for gaming expansion across the state.
The temporary casinos in Lincoln and Grand Island have been operational for several months, providing Nebraska residents with gaming entertainment options.
The approval of a gaming license for the Ag Park casino in Columbus marks a significant development in Nebraska’s growing gambling industry. As the third state-licensed casino in the state, it highlights the increasing interest in gaming and entertainment offerings. With the future addition of Caesars Entertainment’s facility, Nebraska’s gaming landscape is set for further expansion, providing a range of entertainment options for residents and visitors alike.