In a decisive move to revitalize its aging network of provincial casinos, Buenos Aires has officially initiated a public tender process for the redevelopment of seven gaming venues. This initiative, spearheaded by the Provincial Institute of Lottery and Casinos (IPLyC), seeks to modernize outdated infrastructure and transform the selected properties into competitive entertainment destinations.

The plan targets casinos located in Tandil, Miramar, Mar de Ajó, Sierra de la Ventana, and two annexes situated in Mar del Plata—namely the Hermitage and Sasso venues—as well as the deteriorated property in Necochea, according to Lotería de la Provencia. These sites, some of which have been operating under extended concessions, will now be subject to a 20-year operating license, with the potential for a one-year extension. The public opening of the bids is scheduled for July 8 at noon at the IPLyC’s headquarters.

Necochea’s Casino at the Center of Attention

Among the seven locations included in the tender, the Necochea casino stands out due to its long-standing neglect and deteriorated condition. Once a prominent feature of the coastal town’s tourism, the venue has become symbolic of administrative inaction and infrastructural decay. Mayor Arturo Rojas has consistently voiced frustration over the province’s inaction, stating, “This is not just about the building. It’s about the workers and the community. We need the province to act.”

Efforts are now underway in partnership with the Bank of the Province of Buenos Aires to reevaluate the site and adjust tender terms to better appeal to potential investors. The inclusion of Necochea in this process reflects a broader effort to restore value and functionality to neglected municipal assets.

Focus on Investment and Employment Stability

The modernization project isn’t solely aimed at upgrading physical infrastructure. According to IPLyC President Gonzalo Atanasof, the goal extends to economic revitalization and workforce stability. “This is a fundamental step for the modernization and competitiveness of the province’s casinos, based on a commitment made jointly with the province,” said Atanasof. “We not only seek to guarantee the continuity of workers and improve their working conditions, but also to make investments that help capitalize on the tourism and entertainment potential of each casino.”

In concrete terms, the bidding process encourages participants to commit to a comprehensive investment plan. This includes updating gaming equipment, enhancing building conditions, and expanding each facility’s entertainment offerings to include dining and year-round shows. The aim is to create vibrant, multi-functional spaces that can drive consistent foot traffic and tourism throughout the year.

Boldt’s Interim Role and the Tender’s Broader Impact

The call for tenders arrives after a prolonged period in which Boldt S.A., a local gambling operator, managed six of the seven targeted casinos under temporary agreements. These extensions were originally granted following failed privatization attempts during former Governor María Eugenia Vidal’s administration. A new extension has now been issued, allowing Boldt to continue operating the casinos until December 31, 2025, or until the new concessionaires assume control—whichever occurs first.

The IPLyC emphasized that this temporary measure was necessary to safeguard jobs and maintain public revenue streams. “Ensuring continuity of services and protecting employment are essential to avoiding fiscal harm and upholding key public policies,” the institute stated. It further acknowledged the risks of abrupt disruptions, noting that gambling remains a vital revenue source for the province and politically sensitive.

A Pivotal Moment for Buenos Aires’ Casino Sector

After years of stalled efforts and bureaucratic delays, Buenos Aires appears committed to ushering in a new chapter for its casino sector. The initiative is not just about restoring buildings but repositioning these venues as central pillars of local economic development and tourism appeal.

Whether this bold strategy will succeed now depends largely on the province’s ability to attract credible investors ready to meet the ambitious terms of the tender. The inclusion of previously overlooked sites like Necochea, and the commitment to long-term operational stability, suggest a more serious and pragmatic approach compared to past efforts.

With a public opening date set for early July, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether Buenos Aires can overcome past hesitations and fully revitalize its once-thriving network of casinos.