Final bids are due to be submitted today for the Aqueduct video machine operation in New York. Originally the gaming operator was to be named within 30 days of New York Racing Association (NYRA) being awarded a new 25-year franchise for the racetrack on 13 February, but the resignation of New York Governor Eliot Spitzer and budget negotiations have delayed the tender.

Three groups are expected to bid for the right to operate the gaming machines, the number already reduced from six that expressed interest last year. Capital Play together with Mohegan Sun and two former Empire Racing Associates members are hoping to win the contract and have published an advertisement under the title: Aqueduct gaming by Mohegan Sun – looking forward to the future success of Aqueduct beginning in the fall of 2009.

The two other contenders are Delaware North Companies, one of the largest private companies in the US and owns and operates Finger Lakes racetrack in upstate New York with nearly 1,200 video gaming machines, and SL Green Realty Trust based in New York City. SL Green Realty Corp is New York City’s largest commercial office landlord.

Although there has been no date given for the announcement of the winning bid, the New York government will want Aqueduct video slots to open as soon as possible. The proposed racino will house 4,500 VLTs and it is estimated that it will take around one year to construct. Once in operation the gaming machines are expected to generate around US$451 million per year. (E-04.11.08)

© Copyright 2008 CasinoCompendium



>>> return to archives
>>> return to frontpage