Hot on the heels of Casino Regina’s successful renovation, SaskGaming is now steering its efforts towards Casino Moose Jaw, a venue marking its 21-year presence in the Canadian casino gaming industry. Recently, the provincial government sanctioned a $5 million face-lift for the establishment, planned to commence in June.
This renovation aims to create an environment that excels in radiating brightness, extending warm welcomes, and ensuring convenience for its visitors. A critical aspect of the multi-year modernization strategy, this significant investment is a testament to their dedicated efforts towards enhancing the gaming experience and making Casino Moose Jaw a favored entertainment hub among the local and tourist population.
A Timely Project in SaskGaming’s Modernization Journey
Casino Moose Jaw’s refurbishment is the next significant step in SaskGaming’s broader strategy for enhancing its properties. Having already spent the past four years and over $20 million to modernize Casino Regina, the organization is now channeling its resources towards Moose Jaw, affectionately known as The Friendly City.
Brian Miller, Director of Communications, explained that this project is part of their multi-year modernization plan. The objective of this plan is to upgrade the facilities under their control and elevate the guest experience across their establishments. According to Miller, the upcoming transformation of Casino Moose Jaw will essentially “be the completion of that five-year modernization plan.”
Enhancing the Gaming Experience
The renovation will concentrate on improving the gaming and food and beverage sections. Planned upgrades include brighter lights, new carpets, and a redesigned floor plan for smoother guest movement. As Miller stated, the overarching goal of these changes is to enhance the guest experience and reflect SaskGaming’s proven will and industry resilience to stay on the cutting edge of casino gaming in the province.
The upgrade will see Casino Moose Jaw ushering in a more vibrant and welcoming ambiance, reflecting SaskGaming’s commitment to staying ahead in the casino industry. The design focus will ensure improved movement and ambiance, mirroring the positive changes recently experienced by guests at Casino Regina.
Strong Visitor Numbers Justify the Upgrade
Casino Moose Jaw’s impressive visitor statistics underscore the need for an upgrade. The casino has averaged about 38,000 visitors per month over the past year. Despite the renovation, the casino will remain open, with tarps covering the areas under construction.
After a tough year in 2020-21, where the corporation recorded a net loss of $13.4 million, the organization saw a promising turnaround in 2021-22 with a net income of $19.1 million. This rebound underscores the necessity of the modernization projects undertaken at Casino Regina and now, Casino Moose Jaw.
Part of a Wider Provincial Plan
These upgrades are a component of a larger $2.1 billion initiative undertaken by Saskatchewan’s Crown Corporations in 2023-24. This program aims to improve system safety and reliability, enhance customer service, and support the province’s expanding economy. Other notable investments this fiscal year include SaskTel’s $412 million, SaskEnergy’s record $331 million, SaskPower’s $1.15 billion, SaskWater’s $44.6 million, and SGI’s $31.2 million.
For those wondering about what to expect from the renovation, Miller referred to the recent work at Casino Regina. Those familiar with the revamped Casino Regina will have a good idea of the upgrades coming to Moose Jaw. This project is especially significant for Casino Moose Jaw as it will be the most comprehensive since the casino opened in 2002. The only other renovation, in 2009, expanded the gaming floor.
Conclusion
Casino Moose Jaw is on the brink of a transformative chapter, with the planned extensive renovations indicating a hopeful and competitive future ahead. This project is a testament to SaskGaming’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience for visitors and reflects the laser-focused commitment to continued growth and innovation within Saskatchewan’s flourishing gaming industry.
