Ameristar boss defends Colorado expansion
Legalized gaming is good. Expanded legalized gaming is even better.
That’s the underlying theme in an op-ed piece published in this morning’s Denver Post authored by Ameristar Casinos CEO Gordon Kanofsky.
The Las Vegas-based casino operator recently topped off a $245 million, 536-room hotel tower at its Ameristar casino property in Black Hawk, Colo., which is about 40 miles west of Denver.
Kanofsky touted the recently expanded gaming options that Colorado voters approved in November. Colorado casinos are now open 24 hours, have increased their wagering limits, and added new table games. In exchange, casinos pay more to the state in gaming taxes.
The missive was in response to a Jan. 25 Denver Post editorial that was critical of gaming.
Kanofsky’s commentary also carried a line that might concern Strip casino operators.
“We’re confident that our new facilities, increased betting limits and longer operating hours will generate more economic development by attracting a broader range of guests, including those who now travel to Las Vegas to spend their leisure dollars,” Kanofsky wrote.
Ameristar does not operate a Las Vegas casino.
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