The Casino Association of New Jersey has called on vigilance from all stakeholders as the association addresses “a critical moment for our industry” with the impending return to action of Atlantic City casino properties.
Many establishments across the region are preparing to welcome back patrons tomorrow following Governor Phil Murphy issuing executive order number 158 earlier this week.
This sees the resumption of indoor dining temporarily paused, but casino properties reopening this week will introduce a number of extra health and safety protocols.
Food and beverage facilities will offer take-out food services, room service will be available to hotel guests, certain restaurants will offer outdoor dining, food and beverages, including alcoholic, will be served at outdoor venues and smoking will not be permitted on the casino floor.
In the best interest of their guests and employees, properties such as Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa have decided to remain closed given the impact the executive order will have on the experience they are accustomed to providing.
We respect the Governor’s decision to postpone the reopening of indoor dining in New Jersey to protect the public. Given this decision, our property Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City will remain closed. pic.twitter.com/XTNxyw212R
— BORGATA (@BorgataAC) June 29, 2020
The trade organisation has expressed a deep commitment in rebuilding from the health crisis, after “strong gains in recent years” were abruptly halted, and is aiming to “continue the revitalisation of this world-class resort destination”.
Steve Callender, president of the Casino Association of New Jersey, issued the following statement on behalf of the association regarding the reopening of some Atlantic City casinos this week: “For each of the Casino Association of New Jersey members, our top priority is the health and safety of our employees, guests and fellow residents.
“We are taking every precaution to minimise the risk of exposure to COVID-19, which is why we worked with our regional healthcare provider AtlantiCare, the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement and Unite Here to develop a comprehensive and prudent reopening plan that ensures a clean and safe environment for all guests and employees.”
Casino property protocols will be wide-ranging and will include the following safety measures:
- Significant cleaning and disinfecting enhancements.
- Social distancing throughout the properties and gaming floors.
- All hotel and casino staff and guests will wear masks.
- All employees will be educated on signs and symptoms of COVID-19.
- All employees will be screened at the beginning of work shift.
- Signage throughout the properties will remind guests of new rules.
- Nightclubs, buffets, and large venues will remain closed until larger group gatherings are permitted.
