Efforts to add a casino at Fairmount Park in Collinsville, Illinois have hit a roadblock, halting the plans that were championed by late general manager Brian Zander. The proposed casino was seen as a way to revitalize the struggling racetrack and attract more visitors, but disagreements over the project’s details and potential impact have caused delays in the approval process.
Zander, who passed away unexpectedly earlier this year, was a vocal advocate for bringing a casino to Fairmount Park. He believed that the addition of a casino would bring much-needed revenue and excitement to the racetrack, which has seen declining attendance and wagering in recent years.
The proposed casino, dubbed “Better Bettor,” was envisioned as a state-of-the-art gaming facility that would feature a mix of slot machines, table games, and sports betting. It was designed to appeal to both hardcore gamblers and casual visitors looking for a fun night out.
However, concerns about the potential negative effects of a casino at Fairmount Park have caused some stakeholders to push back against the project. Opponents worry that the addition of a casino could lead to increased problem gambling, traffic congestion, and crime in the area. They also argue that the revenue generated by the casino may not be enough to offset these potential downsides.
Despite these concerns, supporters of the casino project remain optimistic about its potential benefits. They point to the success of other racetrack casinos in nearby states as evidence that the addition of gaming facilities can have a positive impact on struggling racetracks.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Fairmount Park emphasized the economic opportunities that a casino could bring to the area. “We believe that the addition of a casino at Fairmount Park would not only create jobs and generate revenue for the local community, but also help to ensure the long-term viability of the racetrack,” the spokesperson said.
The fate of the Better Bettor casino project remains uncertain as stakeholders continue to debate its merits. In the meantime, Fairmount Park will continue to host live horse racing events and other activities in an effort to attract visitors and stay afloat in an increasingly competitive industry. Only time will tell whether the racetrack’s efforts to add a casino will come to fruition, or if the project will remain stalled indefinitely.