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Spring has arrived for us midwesterners, bringing with it the upcoming opening of the latest casino in Illinois.
Just two months ago, the Golden Nugget casino in Danville fulfilled several aspects of its community agreement, indicating that the property was nearing its grand opening.
Currently, it seems that the Danville casino is nearing the finish line.
Golden Nugget Danville in final preparations
Golden Nugget Danville is close to completing its preparations and is expected to open in the spring of 2025, although an official opening date has not yet been announced.
The News-Gazette reported that the property provided an update on its progress, stating that 75% of the slot machines and almost all of the restaurant equipment have been delivered. Hiring is ongoing and the process is moving quickly. As of April 12, the table games were expected to arrive the following week, indicating that they are likely ready for Danville-area gamblers to use.
In simpler terms, most of the necessary logistics like setting up tables and machines, getting equipment, and hiring staff are nearly finished for Golden Nugget Danville. However, there are still some obstacles that need to be overcome.
Approval still needed from a few levels of government
Before the Golden Nugget casino can open its doors to gamblers, the property must first apply for a certificate of occupancy and a public-health certification.
Once the Illinois Gaming Board completes testing of the property, the Golden Nugget Danville will be approved to open.
General Manager Juris Basens stated that once all obligations with the gaming board are met and a date is agreed upon, it will be announced through a press release.
Anticipating the announcement with eager anticipation? Stay tuned for the press release. Rest assured, we will promptly share it here on Play Illinois.
Golden Nugget faces some community concerns
ABC 20 reported on concerns from Alpha Omega Counseling Services as the opening of the Golden Nugget Danville approaches.
“As access expands, so does usage,” stated Kerric Kiley, the president and director of the organization.
Kiley and Alpha Omega are concerned that the convenient location of Golden Nugget could result in a rise in problem gambling. To address this issue in Danville and throughout the state, Alpha Omega has teamed up with the Illinois Department of Human Services to create a campaign aimed at preventing problem gambling.
“Are You Really Winning?” includes a brief survey to help individuals assess if their gambling habits are becoming problematic. The campaign provides resources and testimonials to address the issue of problem gambling, along with prominently displaying the hotline and text line for immediate assistance.
With the Golden Nugget opening soon, it’s important to be aware of where these resources are located in case you or someone you know may need them.