Recently, the Golden Nugget Casino in Danville, Illinois celebrated its journey from a temporary license to proudly becoming the holder of a permanent operating license.
The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) has given approval to Danville Development, LLC, operator of the Golden Nugget Danville brand. Its license, expected to last four years, will require renewal in October 2027.
This event is not alone. Alongside the Golden Nugget, Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort and Bally’s in Chicago also won unanimous approvals of their licenses with a 3-0 board vote.
Opportunities facing IGB
Each casino had its opportunity before the IGB, highlighting its operations and demonstrating commitment since obtaining provisional licenses.
“With today’s licensing actions, the Illinois Gaming Board has opened and licensed five new casinos since November 2021”, said IGB Administrator Marcus D. Fruchter.
He added: “IGB staff and Board members have remained steadfast in our commitment to ensuring the ethics, compliance, integrity, security and transparency of Illinois gaming.”
The Golden Nugget Casino, with an investment of $100 million, began construction in April 2022. Located at 204 Eastgate Drive in Danville, it quickly received the temporary green light from IGB.
With financial support from KeyBank and Wilhelm Construction of Indianapolis leading the casino construction project, the journey has been intriguing. They scheduled a soft launch in May and held a grand opening in August.
Casino Numbers
Nearly 135,000 customers visited the casino, generating adjusted gross revenues of more than $12 million. The employment statistics are equally remarkable, with 244 current employees and an impressive 90% retention rate.
The team has grown by 85 since opening the doors, and there are plans to hire 20 to 30 additional traders.
Diversity in the workforce stands out, with 29% minorities, 60% women, and more than half of these women in leadership positions.
Casino visitors can test their luck with nearly 500 slot machines or enjoy one of the 14 Las Vegas-style table games available.
However, it is important to highlight that the sports betting section is still in the development phase.
