In New Jersey yesterday evening, Governor Chris Christie quietly signed a law to allow two smaller casino hotels in Atlantic City. With the state’s casino city in the doldrums and no sign of recovery, hopes are high that ‘small is beautiful’ will be a recipe for success. The new law means that applications may be submitted straight away for the two casino licences.

Hard Rock Cafe International, the Seminole enterprise based in Orlando Florida, is said to have expressed an interest in developing a US$450 million casino in Atlantic City along the lines of its themed restaurants. Any proposals for the construction of smaller hotel casinos must include a minimum 200 rooms. The reduction in room numbers from the previous 500 is due to the present billion dollar costs of investment.

In a written statement Governor Christie said, “This bill will provide a boost to the engines of Atlantic City and the regional economy, bringing badly needed jobs to the area and signaling the re-emergence of world-class entertainment. While this is an important step in meeting our commitment to revitalize Atlantic City as a premier destination resort, we have more work to do in laying the foundation for growth in this critical area of our economy. I look forward to continuing to work with our partners in the Legislature and Atlantic City to implement a comprehensive plan to bring the job creation, capital investment and regulatory reform needed to renew Atlantic City and strengthen our economy.”

New Jersey continues negotiations on casino deregulation and the creation of a state-run tourism district in Atlantic City. The latter proposal is somewhat controversial as some present planning and licensing powers would be removed from city councillors and the Mayor. Lawmakers in the Assembly could create a tourism district in Atlantic City as early as next week following possible amendments concerning policing and bounderies. (E-01.06.11)

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