New York is soon going to launch a sports betting operation, as projections point to the beginning of August. Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady is ready with its signature sports wagering lounge that would welcome all enthusiasts ready to bet on their favorite team. The official launch of this area is about to take place on July 16 at 10 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and officials attending it.
The state is on the verge of a highly-anticipated gaming offering launch that could make the local market much more competitive to neighboring ones. Pennsylvania and New Jersey already have a well-rounded sports betting field featuring both in-person and mobile wagering. This makes the offering easily available for everyone interested in betting to their heart’s content. Due to delays and controversy, New York is projected to launch in-person sports wagering operation only for the time being.
Casino Braces for Sports Wagering
Schenectady might be the first area to welcome legal sports wagering, as it turns out that the leading casino resort is completely ready for welcoming its first betting enthusiasts. In order to make the area as attractive as possible, casino management has invested time and efforts into it.
Over some 5,000 square feet of space, everyone interested will have the chance to bet on live sports events in a legal manner. Rivers Casino & Resort made it clear that it hopes to see the official launch of betting action as soon as possible, as the season offers all necessary conditions for being a profitable one. This could happen as soon as Tuesday, but state regulators would have the final say on the subject.
It could be recalled that mid-June New York State lawmakers have their final nod to the proposed legislation on sports wagering. However, there is a period of delay, as every casino operator has to obtain its license for operation and finish everything around their sports betting lounges on site. This is expected to guarantee stellar performance down the road.
Betting Lounge Completed
Rivers Casino is among the four commercial casino venues that received the right to oversee sportsbooks, but there is a rivalry among them. Taking the first legal sports bet is an achievement eyed by many in the New York State gaming field. The Schenectady location has actual chances of claiming the first place in this race.
According to the invitations sent out, this is among the main goals for the location. About 80 people will be able to find a comfortable spot within the betting lounge. It stands out with its 53-foot-long video screen offering live streaming of HD content. The lounge also offers as many as five private booths featuring TV screens. As for the bets taking, some six betting windows will be available.
For those willing to bet on their own time, there will be 16 self-serve kiosks. State Gaming Commission spokesman Brad Maione made it clear that every casino venue works on its own timeline, eventually affecting the pace of collaboration with the gaming commission. In addition to the four commercial casino locations, there would also be seven tribal casino venues welcoming wagers on sports events.