Downtown South Bend Casino Being Discussed In Indiana

Lawmakers in the state of Indiana have been discussing the possibility of changing some state laws that require casinos to be built only on riverboats. If that law is changed, a casino in downtown South Bend could become a reality.

There are several groups that are pushing a casino for downtown South Bend. The casino would give the type of jolt needed in both revenue and job creation. The area is in desperate need of both, but they must move quickly.

"Right now, there are several different groups who want to bring land-based casinos to Indiana," said Gaming Analyst Steve Schwartz, "If the state laws change, these groups had better move quickly or they are going to lose out on licensing."

South Bend could be the most financially risky area for a casino developer. There are several areas in the state that are better suited for casino gambling, and that could play a part in eventually keeping a casino out of South Bend.

Currently, Indiana has eleven riverboat casinos, but several have complained about their locations in recent months. There has been a push to allow some of the riverboat casinos to re-locate to inland areas, but these advances have been turned away by lawmakers.

The other issue that would have to be reconciled by South Bend would have to do with their own residents. A referendum must be approved by voters for a South Bend casino to become a reality. Voters seem split on the idea of expanded gambling in their city.

December 27, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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