Ohio’s seven racinos, which operate Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) in converted racetracks, are leading the way towards boosting the Buckeye state’s gaming growth to beat neighboring states, including Indiana, Pennsylvania and West Virginia, which have all experienced declines.
Ohio’s casino revenues, which, besides the racinos, includes its four casino resorts in the state’s four largest cities, increased 2.2 percent from last year for a total of $1.7 billion. One of the racinos, the Hard Rock Racino, increased its revenue by $38.2 million over last year.
The Jack Cleveland Casino reported a revenue decrease of $14 million.
Ohio University professor Alan Silver, whose specialty is hospitality and tourism, commented, “The racinos in Ohio have done really well. They have added a lot of amenities. They are in the suburbs. You don’t have to drive very far. They have done a good job with marketing.”
Although its revenues declined 0.8 percent from last year, Pennsylvania is still producing the most gaming revenue of the four regional states—at $3.1 billion from its 12 casinos.
West Virginia’s Hollywood Casino Charles Town saw decreases of $24.5 million, contributing to a decline statewide of 4.7 percent.
Another state in the region, Michigan, increased its gaming revenues by 1.7 percent.
