Harrah's Complete Racing and Casino Particulars Surface in Nebraska
In a recent development, Caesars Entertainment has unveiled the blueprints for Harrah's Columbus Racing & Casino, marking their first venture in the state of Nebraska.
Following the amendment to Nebraska's state constitution in the 2020 November election, the state's horse racetrack facilities were given the green light to transform into Las Vegas-style commercial casinos, featuring slot machines, table games, and sports betting.
One of the qualifying tracks was Agricultural Park, owned and managed by Columbus Exposition & Racing, Inc. Live racing at the track, popularly known as "Ag Park," is scheduled from September 30 to October 29, 2023.
In partnership with the globally renowned gaming brand, Caesars' Harrah's, Columbus Exposition & Racing aims to establish a temporary gaming space within Ag Park this spring. This interim casino will offer approximately 200 slot machines, apart from the simulcast offerings.
During this period, Caesars is planning to invest $75 million to construct a brand-new horse racetrack and a permanent casino. The project will be located at the former Wishbones/Columbus Events Center along Howard Blvd., northwest of downtown.
Details of Harrah’s Nebraska
Yesterday, Caesars Entertainment executives presented the project at the Elks Country Club. Officially named Harrah’s Columbus, NE Racing & Casino, the development will comprise a 28,000-square-foot casino and sportsbook, housing over 500 slots, 14 table games, and a Caesars Sportsbook.
The property will also house a brewpub and a restaurant named Wishbones, a tribute to the former hometown events center that closed in 2021.
Marriott has plans to build a Fairfield Inn and Townplace Suites adjacent to Harrah’s Columbus. these hotels will be interconnected with the casino for convenience of overnight guests.
"We’re excited to introduce a fresh, new destination to the wonderful state of Nebraska," said Todd Connelly, regional president at Caesars Entertainment. "This is a significant accomplishment for the company, and we've been putting in a lot of effort to bring this project to fruition."
Regarding the racetrack, which is essential for Harrah's Columbus to obtain a state gaming license, Caesars officials confirms that the track will span a mile in length. This will make Harrah's Columbus home to Nebraska's longest thoroughbred racetrack.
"Horse Racing has been a significant part of Columbus' history for many years," said Joe Morris, SVP of racing at Caesars Entertainment. "We're elated to be a part of this history and create a completely new, one-mile racetrack for the community to enjoy."
Anticipated Opening in Early 2024
Harrah's Columbus Racing & Casino aims to welcome its first visitors sometime before June 2024.
Players who visit the temporary casino at Ag Park will start earning Caesars Rewards credits, which can be redeemed for future visits at the permanent casino. Caesars' loyalty program is one of the largest in the US casino industry, with over 50 properties in North America.
Apart from Harrah's, four other casinos are in the pipeline in Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island, and Hastings.
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