The eagerly awaited addition of a new Parx Casino branch is poised to transform Shippensburg Township, Pennsylvania’s entertainment landscape. Boasting a sprawling 73,000-square-foot gaming venue, this mini-casino project has generated excitement among both locals and enthusiasts. Initially slated for a November 2022 debut, the launch was temporarily postponed, but the anticipation is building as the casino’s general manager, Kevin Brady, recently announced the new opening date of January 26, pending regulatory approvals.
Grand Opening Extravaganza:
A momentous occasion awaits on February 3 with a grand opening celebration that promises to captivate the community. As preparations intensify, a notable recruitment drive is currently underway, offering around 25 positions within the casino’s workforce. The recruitment initiative underscores the casino’s commitment to fostering local employment opportunities and contributing to the regional economy.
Origins and Vision:
The casino’s journey began when Greenwood Gaming & Entertainment secured a license in January 2022 to establish a Category 4 casino, marking a pivotal step in Pennsylvania’s gaming landscape. Situated within a renovated former big-box store, this venture symbolizes the state’s fourth mini-casino, bringing a taste of gaming excitement closer to the residents of Shippensburg Township.
Scale and Ambiance:
Occupying a substantial 73,000 square feet, the casino will encapsulate the essence of Parx’s renowned gaming experience, albeit on a slightly smaller scale than its counterpart in Bensalem. With over 3,000 slots, Parx Casino in Bensalem boasts the title of Pennsylvania’s top casino by revenue. The Shippensburg branch is set to offer an array of captivating slot machines and electronic table games, including classic favorites like blackjack, baccarat, and roulette. The addition of remote dealers promises an immersive and technologically advanced gaming experience. Furthermore, sports enthusiasts will be catered to with convenient sports-wagering kiosks, further enhancing the overall entertainment offering.
License and Expansion Possibilities:
The Category 4 Slot Machine License allocated for this venture permits the operation of a range of slot machines, between 300 and 750 in number. Moreover, operators have the option to seek approval for an initial selection of up to 30 table games, with an additional fee of $2.5 million. The license framework accommodates future growth by allowing the addition of 10 more table games following the casino’s first year of operation.
Job Creation and Community Impact:
As the construction project progresses, the facility is expected to generate approximately 175 construction jobs, contributing to the local workforce. Upon completion, it is projected to support over 125 full-time equivalent permanent positions, invigorating the community and providing meaningful employment opportunities.
A Smoke-Free Environment:
In alignment with contemporary trends and prioritizing customer well-being, the new casino branch will maintain a smoke-free environment, ensuring a comfortable and health-conscious setting for visitors to indulge in gaming and entertainment.
The impending arrival of Parx Casino in Shippensburg Township stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of entertainment and gaming. With its expansive gaming floor, advanced technology integration, and commitment to local employment, the casino promises to become a central hub of excitement and leisure for residents and visitors alike. As the grand opening approaches, anticipation grows, underscoring the positive impact that this venture is poised to have on the community and Pennsylvania’s gaming scene.