Penn National Gaming, Inc. announced today that it intends to install table games at Charles Town Races & Slots following voter approval of the table game referendum on December 5, 2009, in Jefferson County, West Virginia
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Penn National Gaming plans to have the tables open for play by the third quarter of 2010 and expects that the addition of the table games – including poker, blackjack, craps and roulette – should add at least 500 new jobs, including 350 dealers, to the current 1,200 person Charles Town employee base.
“Penn National and Charles Town Races & Slots have worked over the past 12 years to establish a true destination entertainment facility featuring an outstanding thoroughbred race track and quality entertainment centre which, in turn, has become a significant economic contributor to Charles Town, Jefferson County and the state of West Virginia," said Peter M. Carlino, chairman and chief executive officer of Penn National Gaming.
"Penn National Gaming has invested over $300 million to support live thoroughbred racing, gaming, live entertainment, diverse food and beverage offerings, expanded parking and the construction of a 153-room hotel. The voter approval of the table games referendum sets the stage for the next step in the evolution of Charles Town and will allow Penn National to further invest in the community by creating 500 new jobs and an important new tax base. We are encouraged that the residents of Jefferson County saw the need to keep Charles Town Races & Slots competitive in today’s marketplace and are grateful for the support demonstrated by so many in the community as well as the endless energy and commitment of our employees throughout this campaign.”
(Penn National Gaming)