For the first time since it opened in 2011, Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, Illinois did not post a revenue increase. In fact, it brought in about the same amount in 2015 as it did in 2014–5 million, according to the Illinois Gaming Board. But that’s still more than double the revenue at the state’s number-two casino, Harrah’s in Joliet, which posted 6 million in 2015, down from 9 million in 2014.
Illinois Gaming Association Executive Director Tom Swoik said the increasing number of video gambling machines in bars and restaurants have had an impact on Rivers Casino. He said Rivers’ static revenue figures indicate the market is saturated. “There’s just not going to be that much more new revenue. It’s just basically redistributing what there is now. I think that’s what you’re seeing with Rivers,” Swoik said.
In a change from posting declines every year since 2008, the Grand Victoria in Elgin brought in $171.5 million in 2015, nearly the same as 2014. General Manager Jim Thomason said the figures are due to new slot machines, recent remodeling and a successful summer concert series.
The Hollywood Casino in Aurora posted revenue of $121.2 million in 2015, down from $126.9 million in 2014. Revenue rose slightly at the Hollywood Casino in Joliet, from $122.6 million in 2014 to $125 million in 2015.
The state took in $403 million in gaming tax revenue, down $10.6 million compared to 2014. Any talk of expanding gambling to bring in more revenue will have to wait until lawmakers agree on a budget, said state Senator Terry Link who last session introduced a bill allowing several new casinos across the state and up to 1,200 slot machines at Arlington Park.
“Casino expansion has taken a back seat to the budget. If we ever do get a budget done, that would one of the main things that would be brought through right away,” Link said.
