Exact opening date depends on ‘public health authorities,’ spokesperson says
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It has been more than six months since crews have worked at the new Cascades Casino site off Pinewood Park Drive.
But the time has come for construction to resume, said Rob Mitchell, director of communications at Gateway Casinos and Entertainment Ltd.
“Crews arrived at the site yesterday (Monday) to conduct a site inspection and prepare to resume construction,” he said.
“The last November, we poured the concrete floor and did the electrical work.”
Mitchell said he can’t confirm the casino’s exact opening date, adding a lot will depend on “public health authorities.”
The Cascades Casino project broke ground May 2019. It was originally scheduled to open in 2020.
However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions put in place across the province over the last year, that wasn’t able to happen.
The casino project is expected to cost $31 million and create up to 300 jobs when open.
“We have decided to resume construction and build as we had planned. We’re confident in our health and safety protocols. We are not building to COVID. Instead, we will adapt,” he said.
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“Our intention is to proceed as planned and will include all amenities. There is some question about the buffet in the casino, but there will be an outdoor patio with live entertainment, there will be the summit bar and restaurants.”
Mitchell said the design of the North Bay casino will be identical to the Chatham casino.
“The spot we have in North Bay between the city and Callander is really a great spot. This is one more destination to contribute why North Bay is a great destination.”
Mitchell said casinos across Ontario remain closed under the province’s current month-long shutdown.
However, five sites in Ontario did reopen before the shutdown came into effect Saturday.
“It’s been tough,” he said.
