Gambling field cannibalization is among the main issues, which could make or break a given venue’s future down the road. Hard Rock Ottawa would launch operation in 2021 but concerns have been swirling around the area for about a year now. Loto-Quebec makes projections that Casino du Lac-Leamy in Gatineau is going to suffer a significant blow surpassing the CA$62-million mark on an annual basis.
Hard Rock Casino Ottawa is about to transform the community and Canada in general with its riveting offerings available on site. The launch of operation has been anticipated for more than a year now, ever since the official announcement took place and stirred the pot. The major casino operator would aim to upgrade existing Rideau Carleton Raceway Casino and make it a full-scale casino resort. Some CA$318 million is going to be poured into the project until its completion.
Lavish Casino Resorts Will Rise in Ottawa
Lotto-Quebec pointed out recently that a gaming revenue drop is projected for casino venues in the capital region. This includes Casino du Lac-Leamy, but it also covers other locations overseen by the lottery corporations. Lynn Roiter, Chief Executive Officer of the provincial corporation expressed his concerns regarding the impact this launch could have on future casino operation in Gatineau.
The last fiscal year was a good one for the casino venues, as it saw a 5-percent surge in its gaming revenue, reaching CA$270.5 million. In the meantime, Hard Rock Entertainment continues with the promotional campaign that aims to inform locals about the upcoming lavish project. It is going to be appealing to both Quebec players and Ontarians that make their way on a regular basis.
The casino venue aims to fortify its positions with a CA$50-million upgrade. The casino venue welcomed operation of a brand-new nightclub, as well as a convention area. Existing entertainment offerings such as Bar 7 were also improved. Expectations are that the first phase of the Rideau Carleton Raceway’s transformation would result in CA$10-million loss for Gatineau by the end of this fiscal year.
Loto-Quebec Projects CA$60M Loss
There would be three phases of construction and upgrade until Hard Rock Casino Ottawa becomes reality. In its entirety, the project spans over a total of six years and its first phase has already been completed. It resulted in the renovation of the existing casino and increasing the current gaming offerings with 35 gaming tables.
The next two phases would take more time and would involve up to 4,000 individuals on various positions. Projections are that the casino resort featuring lavish hotel and parking for all guests and casino patrons will be beneficial for the City of Ottawa with annual non-tax gaming revenue allocations amounting to CA$12.8 million.
In this sense, the project is more than appealing to the local officials, as it would result in a significant boost to the local economy. Various projects are going to be funded with the regular allocation compensating the community for casino operation.
Asian casino patrons will also feel welcomed at the new casino resort, as there is going to be a special Asian-themed gaming zone with popular offerings to the likes of Pai Gow, mini baccarat, poker, as well as blackjack.