Operator News
US – Construction to halt on two Penn National projects
By Phil - 18 March 2020
Following the call from Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf’s for the statewide closure of all non-essential business, including casinos, Penn National is postponing construction work at the two Category 4 satellite casino that it was awarded.
At this stage the operator doesn’t know whether it will resume construction saying it will have to review whether to proceed with the satellites
Penn National Gaming CEO Jay Snowden said: “We fully support the Governor’s effort to try to stem the tide of this unprecedented public health threat. We also believe it’s prudent to revisit any and all capital expenditure commitments in order to help preserve liquidity in light of the impact of COVID-19 on our business.”
The $111m Hollywood Casino Morgantown was expected to open in November of this year and the $120m Hollywood Casino York at the York Galleria Mall was anticipated to open by year end. By law, Category 4 “mini casinos” are authorised to operate up to 750 slot machines and 40 table games.
“We look forward to continuing to consult with the Governor’s office, as well as local, state and federal health authorities to determine when construction might resume,” said Mr. Snowden. “In the meantime, we appreciate the patience, understanding and support of our community leaders in Morgantown and York, as well as our local construction teams.”
The bids cost Penn $50.1m in January 2018 to secure a 15-mile radius in York County along with $7.5m for a Berks County satellite in Morgantown.
