Track Closure Threatens Harrah’s Philadelphia

The Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission has suspended operations at the racetrack of Harrah’s Philadelphia in Chester, Pennsylvania, due to track surface problems.

A closure of the racetrack at Harrah’s Philadelphia racino in Chester, Pennsylvania, could threaten the Category 1 casino license held by Caesars Entertainment for the property.

The Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission has suspended operations of the racetrack at Harrah’s Philadelphia, citing the property’s failure to resolve problems with the track’s surface. Should the problems not be resolved, the closure could threaten cancellation of the 2014 racing season, slated to begin March 8.

Since Harrah’s is a Category 1 racino, it is required by law to maintain a “written live agreement with a horsemen’s organization” as a condition of the license. Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board Spokesman Doug Harbach told the Associated Press his agency will continue to monitor the situation closely.

Caesars Entertainment Senior Vice President Jan Jones said the issue will be resolved before any licensing issues result, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal.