Casino Salem opens with historical horseracing and charitable gaming focus
New Hampshire facility begins operations with phase one launch at The Mall at Rockingham Park.
Key points:
– Casino Salem opens phase one of operations featuring historical horseracing (HHR) machines
– Facility aims to generate local jobs, tax revenue and charitable contributions
– Located at the site of the former Lord & Taylor store in Salem, NH
Casino Salem has officially opened its doors to the public, launching phase one of a multi-phase project that introduces historical horseracing machines to Salem, New Hampshire for the first time.
The opening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on 9 July at The Mall at Rockingham Park.
The initial offering includes HHR games, table games, poker, a full-service bar and food outlets.
Casino Salem’s management expects the facility to contribute immediately to the local economy through job creation, tourism and donations to qualified charities under New Hampshire’s charitable gaming model.
Actor Steve Schirripa, known for his role on The Sopranos, placed the first bet on the venue’s HHR machines during the launch event.
Jeff Favre, Executive VP at Casino Salem, said: “By opening the casino in phases, we can expedite the addition of charitable gaming to the entertainment and tourism assets that Salem has to offer in addition to generating contributions to organisations in need.”
Good to know: The opening follows the 2022 acquisition of Chasers Poker Room by Churchill Downs, which also planned a major HHR expansion in the same region
The project is spearheaded by developers Joe Faro and Sal Lupoli in partnership with Cordish Gaming Group. Located adjacent to the Tuscan Village complex, the casino is positioned to tap into the region’s existing tourism and retail traffic.
Salem Town Manager Joe Devine said: “This project represents a significant investment in the future of Salem and the greater Southern New Hampshire region. It will bring jobs, spur economic growth, support local charities and help further establish Salem as a premier destination for entertainment, dining and innovation.”
Cindi Woodbury, Executive Director of the Southern New Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, commented: “This new addition represents a significant investment in our local economy, creating new jobs and bringing fresh entertainment and tourism opportunities to the area.”
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