WarHorse Casino Lincoln Expands Casino Gaming Space with New Offerings
WarHorse Casino Lincoln Expands Casino Gaming Space with New Offerings
On Monday, WarHorse Casino Lincoln celebrated the launch of phase two of its permanent gaming floor, unveiling an expanded range of Casino gaming options that aim to enhance the visitor experience.
Owned and operated by WarHorse Gaming and the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, the casino has more than doubled its slot machine offering, growing from approximately 400 to an impressive 830 machines. Additionally, they have introduced ten table games, including popular choices like blackjack, roulette, and mini-baccarat. Patrons can also enjoy over 100 simulcast screens, providing views of live horse racing from around the globe, alongside available sports betting opportunities.
Statements from Leadership
Lance Morgan, CEO of WarHorse, stated that this second phase brings significant improvements and increased seating options for dining. He emphasized that the addition of table games is expected to positively impact the casino’s business performance.
“When people think of Las Vegas-style gambling, they often envision table games. We had been primarily limited to slots for the last two years, but now with 10 table games in play, we are excited about the potential customer interest,” expressed Lynne McNally, CEO of the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association.
Background on Gaming Legislation in Nebraska
In 2020, Nebraska voters passed a statewide ballot referendum allowing state-licensed racetracks to operate casinos, marking a significant transformation in the state’s gambling scene. The NHBPA has partnered with Ho-Chunk and WarHorse to convert racetracks into fully functional casinos.
Gross Gaming Revenue and Taxation
Gross gaming revenue (GGR) is subject to a 20% tax, with 70% of the revenue allocated to the Nebraska Property Tax Credit Fund, 25% to counties where gambling takes place, and the remaining 5% divided between the state’s Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund and the General Fund.
Although construction faced delays due to the pandemic and related inflation costs, the completion of phase two signifies progress towards delivering anticipated tax relief to Nebraska residents.
Future Developments
With the second phase of the casino’s development complete, WarHorse is now focusing on constructing a hotel at the property. The upcoming third and final phase will include a 200-room hotel, convention space, and additional restaurant facilities.
Series of Successful Expansions
WarHorse Gaming and the NHBPA successfully launched their first casino in Nebraska in August, with WarHorse Casino Omaha at Horsemen’s Park featuring around 800 slots and 19 live dealer table games, alongside simulcast screens and a sports book. Currently, there are no immediate plans for a hotel at that location.
As of September, WarHorse Lincoln generated a gross gaming revenue of approximately $41.3 million, contributing to a combined total of $54.9 million from both WarHorse casinos. In a broader context, statewide GGR for all four casinos reached $94.2 million, indicating that WarHorse and the NHBPA command nearly 58% of Nebraska’s casino industry market.
Conclusion
WarHorse Casino Lincoln’s expansion with new gaming offerings positions it as a pivotal player in Nebraska’s gaming industry. With plans to enhance facilities further and significant revenue performance, WarHorse is set to continue its momentum as a leader within the state’s evolving landscape.
