When it comes to the opening date of the Cleveland casino, all bets are off.
“It may be a sign of what’s to come,” said Frank Lanza of Lakewood. “It kind of leads to like broken promises that are going to follow with what this casino is promising our community.”
Rock Ohio Caesars gambled by saying the Horseshoe Casino would open in March.
Now, the licensing process is causing a delay. It could be months before it opens, but area businesses hope for sooner.
“Well, I wasn’t jumping up and down, that’s for sure, when I heard the delay,” said Brandt Evans, chef and owner of Pura Vida.
Evans said the opening of the casino could mean an economic boost for downtown—something the area desperate needs.
“People, actually, when they’re done gambling, you know, hopefully will bring their wins toward us,” Evans said. “It’s supports the local economy. It creates jobs. It’s a win-win for everything.
Evans expects he’ll have to revamp his business to meet the demand.
“I’m projecting another 20 to 25 percent increase in my business and with that comes other jobs and people I have to employ,” he said. “The casino coming adds just even more and more revitalization to Cleveland.”
For now, the community will have to wait.
The casino opening may push back until June at the earliest.
Yet, the Casino Control Commission says no one can guarantee a date.