The WarHorse Casino in Lincoln, Nebraska, recently celebrated the completion of its second development phase, significantly enhancing its gaming and entertainment offerings. With the addition of nearly 900 slot machines and 10 new table games, the casino now provides a richer experience reminiscent of Las Vegas-style gambling.

Expansion highlights and future plans:

Lance Morgan, CEO of WarHorse, spearheaded the recent unveiling which showcased a variety of new amenities. “We’ve expanded the casino area and introduced a revamped sportsbook,” Morgan explained. “The addition includes another 400 gaming machines, 10 table games, dedicated smoking areas, and entertainment spaces, enhancing the overall atmosphere and guest experience.”

The expansion not only enlarges the casino floor but also includes more dining spaces and seating areas, allowing guests more comfort and entertainment options. Morgan noted that this expansion is just a part of ongoing growth, with plans to introduce 500 more tables and slots by 2025.

Lynne McNally, head of government relations at the company and CEO of the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protection Agency, highlighted the potential community benefits of the expansion. “A lot of people, when they think of Las Vegas style gambling, they think of table games, right? Blackjack, Roulette. So, you know, we’ve been open for two years with only enough room for slot machines, but we now have 10 table games,” McNally stated, according to Nebraska Public Media. She also touched on the expected economic benefits, including the potential for property tax relief. However, she noted that achieving these benefits is contingent on the completion of all planned expansions.

As KLKN-TV reports, at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, residents expressed their hopes for the new expansion. Carolyn Mach, eager to explore the new features, commented, “I’m still hoping it happens because everyone’s taxes are way too high. And if this helps, I’m for it.” Another attendee, George Maxson, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need for property tax relief.

Ongoing challenges and economic factors:

Despite the positive outlook, the casino’s development has faced challenges. The economic slowdown and higher interest rates have delayed the completion of the casino’s multiple phases. “The delay in opening was unexpected, considering this project was approved four years ago,” Morgan remarked. However, he remains optimistic that these issues will be resolved as the economy stabilizes and the remaining phases of the casino come to fruition.

As WarHorse Casino looks to its future, both Morgan and McNally are enthusiastic about the potential of the new and upcoming features to enhance guest experiences. “We invite everyone to come and see the improvements. This expansion is not the end; we have even greater plans in store,” McNally concluded.

The third phase of the casino’s expansion will see the addition of a hotel, an entertainment center, and an upgraded racetrack, promising to further transform the WarHorse Casino into a premier gaming and entertainment destination in Lincoln.