Gateway Casinos and Entertainment announced that Cascades Casino Penticton is opening its doors on April 5 at 5 p.m.
The 11-month, $25-million project was on time and on schedule according to general manager Mike Magnusson.
“The staff that we have at the current casino are really excited to come over, to see the property, to see what will essentially be their new second home. The staff that we’re hiring from Penticton and the surrounding area are really excited for being part of the new food and beverage outlets, the Match concept, the rooftop patio,” Magnusson said. “The vibe that’s already at the SOEC that we just want to create or take to the next level.”
Finishing work is all that is left to be completed.
With 45,000 square feet of entertainment space featuring a gaming floor, exciting entertainment and culinary options to suit any taste including Gateway’s signature restaurants — The buffet and Match Eatery and Public House, which will feature the brand’s first rooftop patio.
“We’re really excited to showcase what we’ve built and to get the team in here and start training,” Magnusson said.
Cascades is looking at providing 330 to 340 jobs, up from their original estimate of 300 with training starting in late March.
Mayor Andrew Jakubeit got his first look inside the facility March 9 along with media outlets.
“It’s really making this an entertainment hub on campus with the events centre. So when there’s a concert or a hockey game people can come a little bit earlier or stay a bit longer. Really giving people more of a reason to come to Penticton and stay in this area of town,” Jakubeit said.
He also praised the local company for expanding and providing over 300 local jobs.
“It’s really good for our community because the casino is going to generate almost $100 million over the next 40 years with us being the host community and the leasing and taxes that come along with them being here,” Jakubeit said.
He addressed parking concerns, acknowledging the parking study which said there will be some congestion for about eight or nine events out of the year.
“There’s 700 parking spots within a five to 10 minute walk as well. That is a bit of a myth we need to destigmatize. There’s certainly some peak times, but the casino, their peak time is late in the evening,” Jakubeit said. “When a concert and event is earlier in the day so I think they can manage the traffic flow.”
Related: Construction brings help wanted signs
To celebrate the grand opening festivities guests will be treated to live entertainment from rhythm guitar player and veteran vocalist, Dave Coalmine and Virgin FM’s own DJ Flipout playing in Match. Guests can also snap a picture with glamorous showgirls or meet Elvis as he croons throughout the casino.
“Come and join us for the party as we open our doors on April 5 for our grand opening of the spectacular Cascades Casino,” said Mike Magnusson, general manager. “I am very excited to introduce Penticton to our unique brand of entertainment. We want every guest to have an experience that has them planning their next Cascades trip before they leave.”
Related: Gateway Casino announces Penticton relocation
The Cascades gaming floor features 400 of the newest and latest slot machines and favourite gaming tables, including blackjack, roulette and baccarat. The Cascades of Cash promotion will also kick off on April 5, where you could instantly win $1,000,000, just by swiping your Encore Rewards card. The promotion also includes daily instant win prizing of food and beverage, cash, player points and bonus ballots. The first 300 people through the doors at 5 p.m. on April 5 will get a lucky envelope that could contain up to $50 in Free Play/Match Play.