Patterson Vows To Bring Casino Gambling To Aqueduct In 2010

Lawmakers in the state of New York approved video gambling at Aqueduct eight years ago. To this day, there still is no expanded gambling at the track. According to Governor David Patterson, that is about to change.

Patterson said on Friday that he plans to have a vendor chosen to operate the machines at the track. The hold up all these years has been the state's inability to come to terms with a vendor. Now, however, there is not more time to delay.

The New York Racing Association has already threatened to cancel the legendary Belmont Stakes if the video gambling plan does not start moving on the fast track. The Belmont brings in millions of dollars for New York, and losing the race would be rough on the economy.

In addition to the Belmont threat, New York is trying to keep up with neighboring states that have expanded their casino gambling options. In Pennsylvania, lawmakers are working on legislation that would legalize table games at state casinos.

Patterson kept most of the plan for Aqueduct under wraps Friday, but did say that he will announce his choice to become the vendor at the track in the next week. The state Senate and House have taken their time finding a vendor.

Many racetracks around the country have turned to video gambling machines to help offset losses on the track. In Kentucky, Governor Steve Beshear is pushing a plan for slot machines at state racetracks.

January 2, 2010
Posted By Tom Jones
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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