West Memphis, Arkansas is finally getting a full-fledged casino, after residents voted to legalize casinos in four counties in the state back in November.
Live gaming tables will officially open at Southland on Monday.
“I’m excited and I hope we win a lot of money,” said gambler Elaine Terrell.
There are now more opportunities to cash in.
Southland Gaming and Racing is now called Southland Casino Racing.
With the name change comes its ability to have real table games, with real people, cards and dice, attracting more players to try their luck.
“Yes,” agreed Pat Hibdon of Tipton County. She visits the casino monthly. “We will. Absolutely, we like it.”
In November, Arkansans voted yes to legalizing casinos in four counties, including Crittenden County.
The Arkansas Gaming Commission gave the green light to Southland, approving gaming licenses.
Officials say forty new game tables will be added.
This is the first phase of a $250 million expansion that will include a high-rise hotel and an expanded casino complex.
Officials expect 400 jobs to be added and gamblers say the gaming upgrades will boost the city and state’s appeal.
“I do know a few people that work over here,” said Terrell. “But i think it will bring more even for Memphis you know since it took us so long to even vote for casinos.”
A Southland spokesperson told Local 24 News on Saturday that a few more table hookups will be completed Sunday ahead of Monday’s big debut.
“When you come to play to have a good time, this is where you need to come,” said Hibdon.
Officials expect the transitions to casino gaming will be completed by the summer. Construction on the hotel tower is expected to take about 18 months and the casino complex about 12 months.