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When the Mississippi River flooded a few weeks ago, many businesses along the river were forced to close, including casinos located in Tunica, Mississippi. The closing of the casinos along the river affected both the employees as well as the patrons who visit on a regular basis. The Gold Strike is now the first business to reopen after the flooding and other properties opened back up a few days later. The Gold Strike reopened about a week ago and players were happy to be back at the craps tables and play other casino games. Over 1,300 employees were able to get back to work once the casino was ready for service.
The executive director of the state Gaming Commission, Larry Gregory, stated that the Roadhouse casino would open a few days later as well as the Horseshoe. For the casinos to be able to open back up the fire department must deem the building safe to occupy. The state health department must ensure the water is safe as well before reopening will be allowed.
According to the head of the Tunica Visitors and Conventions Bureau it could be a longer period of time before other casinos are allowed to open. The Fitz casino can only be reached by boat as the parking lot is covered in about twelve feet of water. The river has risen to about forty four feet and it will have to drop about three or four feet before roads will be passable by truck only.
It has been estimated that the flooding cost about $95 to $100 million in gaming revenue losses. The official’s figures for the month of April are going to be released next week so an exact number will soon be released.
2011-06-03
