Officials hope to reopen river boat soon 

 

August 9

Officials and spokespeople for the Metropolis Casino owned by Harrah's are hoping for a swift reopening of the riverboat gambling facility that has been closed due to low river water levels.

The casino that is located on the Ohio River has been closed since Sunday. A barge that has become grounded on the river connects the casino to the shore and because the river is so low, the walkways between the boats has become unsafe.

Even though the river has gained two feet of depth causing conditions to become safe again, the company is waiting for approval from the Gaming Board of Illinois. The casino has been inspected and ramps were constructed to cause safer walking. The Board is the last step left for reopening.

As we reported here yesterday, the casino stands to lose around $500.000 in earnings from the closure. For each additional day the gambling boat is not open, the city loses up to 30 thousand dollars in tax income. This sheds light on the local economy issues at hand when the casino is not in operation. Not to mention the hundred or so employees that are forced to take time off during this time.

The gambling riverboat has been in business for over twelve years and this is the first time it has been shut-down due to low river levels.