ELORA – Elements Casino Grand River is reopening on Sept. 28.
But it will be slot machines only in the beginning, and other table games and amenities like food and beverage services will not be open.
As well, admission is limited to 50 guests at a time to comply with stage three of the province’s COVID-19 reopening plan.
The reopening will mark the first time the casino has been open in over six months.
The OLG announced on March 15 that all casinos in the province would close within 24 hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
On Sept. 4 the Great Canadian Gaming Association (GCGA) announced it will be reopening 11 of its casinos in Ontario on Sept. 28 and will be adhering to provincial and public health guidelines.
Only people who have made reservations will be allowed inside, however.
“Upon completion of the reservation – you will be sent a QR code as confirmation – please print or download this on your phone,” the website explains.
“This must be presented upon arrival at the casino along with government issued photo identification in order to enjoy your play session.”
The website says visitors must arrive 15 minutes prior to their session to allow for check-in time.
Some slot machines will be closed to allow for physical distancing and, in some situations, plexiglass barriers have been installed between machines.
Loyalty reward programs remain intact and accumulated loyalty points and existing free play balances on accounts will not be expired.
“Promotional offers such as slot play or match play and gifting offers issued prior to our March 16, 2020 closure are considered void,” the company states on its website.
“I’m pleased we are able to safely reopen our facilities in Ontario and New Brunswick, allowing us to bring back to work team members in each province,” GCGA CEO Rod Baker stated in a press release.
But while it’s great to be open, serving patrons again and getting some of the team back to work, at best it will be a revenue-neutral move, Baker said.
“Once open, gaming revenues in each jurisdiction will be significantly reduced due to operating restrictions,” he stated.
“The reductions will be especially significant for our Ontario properties where, due to the 50-guest maximum restriction, we expect no material financial benefit to the company from our 11 Ontario locations.”
The reservation system is not yet operational, but will be accessible from the parent company’s website.
Information about the reopening is also posted at elementscasinograndriver.com.
