Nebraska’s temporary gaming facilities, including Grand Island Casino Resort, WarHorse Casino, and Harrah’s Columbus NE Racing & Casino, achieved remarkable success in 2023, marking their first full year of operations. The state’s four racetrack casinos collectively contributed $17.8 million in tax revenue, a testament to their impact on the local gaming industry.
Overview of Tax Revenue and Operations:
In 2023, these casinos were subject to a 20% tax rate on their combined gross revenue of $89 million. WarHorse Casino in Lincoln emerged as a frontrunner, reporting $51.5 million in gaming revenue, followed by Grand Island with $29.9 million and Harrah’s Columbus NE Racing & Casino, which generated $7.3 million after opening its doors in June.
Sportsbook Ventures:
WarHorse Gaming, a subsidiary of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska’s economic development arm Ho-Chunk, ventured into the sports betting arena by opening a temporary sportsbook in Omaha in November. Although the sportsbook has shown early promise, offering a unique dimension to the gaming landscape, it has yet to incorporate casino gaming into its offerings.
Record-Breaking December Revenue:
December 2023 proved to be a landmark month for the state’s racetrack casinos, as they collectively raked in nearly $8.9 million in revenue. This impressive figure marked a new record and highlighted the growing popularity of these gaming establishments among Nebraska residents and visitors alike.
Future Developments and Expansion:
Looking ahead, Grand Island is set to unveil its permanent venue in 2025, featuring a 37,000-square-foot casino floor adorned with 650 slot machines, 20 table games, and an integrated sportsbook. Similarly, WarHorse Casino in southwest Lincoln is gearing up for its permanent location, boasting a 9,000-square-foot gaming floor, 445 slot machines, sportsbook kiosks, and facilities for simulcast and live racing. Caesars Entertainment, overseeing Harrah’s Columbus NE Racing & Casino, is on track to open its permanent location in the spring of 2024. The construction of WarHorse Casino Omaha, situated at Horsemen’s Park, is underway, with completion expected in June or July 2024.
Nebraska’s racetrack casinos have not only made a significant economic impact, contributing $17.8 million in taxes in 2023, but have also shown promising signs of sustained growth. As the state continues to embrace the gaming industry, the upcoming permanent venues and expansions promise to enhance the overall gaming experience for patrons and solidify Nebraska’s position on the regional gaming map.