The new $36 million Cascades Casino in Chatham, Ontario, recently held a soft opening, attracting hundreds of visitors. It’s the first from-the-ground-up facility Gateway Casinos and Entertainment Ltd has built in Ontario. The company has renovated casinos in Point Edward and Hanover since it took over casino and slot machine operations in Southwestern Ontario from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation. A grand opening ceremony will take place August 8.
Gateway Communications and Public Affairs Director Rob Mitchell said, “It’s very exciting. I think it’s really exceeded expectations.” He noted leading up to the official opening, Gateway will tweak amenities and services as required.
One highlight at the property is the new 300-seat Match Eatery and Public House, which Gateway Eastern Canada Food and Beverage Director Brent Dallimore called a “classic pub with a contemporary twist.” The venue will host events for watching sports and offer 12 draft beer taps and a rotating craft beer tap including favorites.
Meanwhile, Gateway officials said 70 employees at will be laid off at Casino Rama in Ramara and Georgian Downs in Innisfil. According to a statement, “After detailed analysis of the central gaming market and current operations, Gateway has made the difficult decision to reduce staff levels at its two gaming site locations in central Ontario. The reasons for these staff adjustments include reduced hours of operation at the dining outlets, investments in new technology (new security and surveillance systems, Gaming Management System, other automation) and other basic business efficiencies.”
Gateway officials said the employees affected by the “operational changes” will be encouraged apply for work at Wasaga Beach location or other planned developments in London, Chatham-Kent, North Bay, Kenora or Sudbury.
