Although Great Canadian Gaming Corporation’s Q3 2016 Highlights press release section optimistically predicited that Shorelines Casino Belleville would open before the end of the year, estimates were a little more realistic when ground was broken on April 27, 2016 – then looking for an opening “as early as March 2017”.
The Peterborough Examiner reports that there is still a lot of work occurring at the end of the year – mostly finishing touches inside and out, and the property hasn’t applied for an occupancy permit yet.
The casino, located on Bell Blvd. in Belleville, Ontario, Canada is owned by British Columbia-based GCGC (TSE: GC) and will be managed by Ontario Gaming East. Ltd., and regulated by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG).
Andy LaCroix, executive director, Ontario East, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation recently told the news outlet, “There is still some external stuff to do at the site, but we’re getting there. We know there is a buzz in town about us getting open.”
The 48,000 sq ft facility is reportedly on target to meet its budget of $41 million for opening.
The casino is expected to hold 450 slot machines and 18 gaming tables with a VIP section holding mixed games. There will be a patio area, a stage hosting small entertainment acts, a lounge, and restaurant buffet. The restaurant is all glass with outside views.
The city of Belleville will enjoy a new revenue stream once the wheels start spinning with 5.25 percent of the first $65 million generated from electronic gaming going to the community along with 4 percent of table gaming revenues for the city council to spend as they decide.
The casino will feature an interactive Responsible Gaming Centre, the first of its kind in Ontario. Part of the OLG’s mandate is to address addictive or problem gambling. At Shorelines Casino Belleville, players will have more than brochures or static signs to rely on, “This one is more interactive with displays,” LaCroix said. “It’s the first of that brand in the province. “Most of them use brochures and flyers, well this will have televisions and interactive pods.”