Langley’s Cascades Casino is closing its doors as COVID-19 precautions continue to shut down large gatherings and public events.
B.C. Lottery Corporation (BCLC) has confirmed an orderly shutdown of all casinos, community gaming centres, and bingo halls by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, March 16.
The temporary closure of all gaming facilities follows the directive issued by Attorney General David Eby and announced today by Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry.
Tanya Gabara, Gateway Casinos public relations director, had previously told the Langley Advance Times that a shutdown of Gateway casinos, including Cascades, was imminent.
The Great Canadian Gaming Corporation had previously closed 10 B.C. casinos at midnight Monday morning to limit Coronavirus spreading.
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Cascades Casino is a major employer that also directly contributes to Langley City by sharing 10 per cent of its net profits, as required under gaming regulations.
The City share, roughly around $6.4 million, has kept taxes 2.5 per cent lower than they would have been without the gaming revenue and additionally helped carry Langley City out of debt.
Cascades Casino money has also been used to carry out various projects including bridge deck repairs on 200 Street, Douglas Crescent rehabilitation between 204 Street and 208 Street, and work on 56 Avenue.
Langley City could not be reached for comment on potential revenue effects from the casino closure.
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Email: ryan.uytdewilligen@langleyadvancetimes.com
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