Nebraska’s First Permanent Casino to Open in May 2024
The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission allowed Harrah’s Columbus to start operating on May 13 of this year. The casino, owned by Caesars Entertainment, will become the first permanent gambling facility in the state.
The operator has invested almost $100 million in the construction of a new racetrack northwest of the downtown area; it includes 17,000 square feet of casino space featuring 400 slot machines and 11 table games.
Harrah’s Columbus will also feature Caesars sportsbook, Brew Brothers craft beer spot called and Wishbones sports bar. Construction of the adjacent Marriott Hotel is almost completed, so the property will open at the same time as the casino.
As for a race book, it will become available from August. A condition for every gaming license issued by the Nebraska regulator is that the casino must be located on the same property where the horse racing is conducted.
An option of launching casinos at racetracks located in the state was approved following a 2020 referendum. Caesars was chosen to build and operate Harrah’s Columbus NE Racing & Casino after submitting the best development project.
In June 2023, the operator opened a temporary casino in the Platte County Agricultural Park. The facility recently ceased operations pending the launch of the permanent casino.
According to Caesars officials, particular plans and a specific date for the grand opening have not yet been finalized. The operator continues its recruitment campaign, looking for dealers, waiters, bartenders, internal auditors, hosts, slot techs and other specialists. Harrah’s Columbus is one of four permanent casinos currently under construction in the state.
In other news, Virginia’s Bristol Casino got the largest revenue ever in March 2024.
