So far, just one application to build a small-scale or staged casino in Atlantic City has been received by the New Jersey gaming authorities.
In July, the Casino Control Commission revealed that expressions of interest in the scheme had been submitted by Hard Rock partner AC Gateway, Pinnacle Entertainment’s ACE Gaming and development group California Avenue Ventures. Only AC Gateway has chosen to continue with its plans.
Under legislation signed by Governor Chris Christie, the commission has been given the power to issue licences for ‘boutique’ casino hotels where, instead of the standard 500-room minimum that has been applied in the past, the law allows for properties to be developed with as few as 500 rooms. Each must be constructed along Atlantic City’s Boardwalk.
AC Gateway is seeking approval to build a staged casino that will initially include 200 hotel rooms and a casino of up to 34,000sq.ft. Within two years of licensing, the company must begin to expand the property to at least 500 rooms.
“The commission will immediately begin to review the application to make certain it meets all of the requirements of the pilot program,” said commission chair Linda Kassekert. “We want to get this project moving as quickly as possible.”
With the withdrawal of ACE Gaming and California Avenue Ventures, the commission is now free to seek expressions of interest for additional licences at a later date.
