PLAINVILLE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — One of Massachusetts' three casinos started accepting bets again on Wednesday morning, after nearly four months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement online, Plainridge Park Casino said it is taking all necessary precautions to ensure the health and safety of customers and staff as they return to the gaming floor.
“While the amenities our customers have come to know and love may be somewhat limited for the time being, the ability to safely welcome back our team members and guests remains our top priority," said the casino.
"With this in mind, we have been working closely with the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, state and local leaders, and public health officials to finalize comprehensive reopening protocols and new health and safety precautions."
The casino said those precautions include:
- Requiring guests and staff to wear masks, and to undergo temperature checks prior to entry
- Limited slot machines, which will be cleaned throughout the day
- Limited capacity on the gaming floor
- Limited restaurant offerings in designated areas
- Floor decals, plexiglass and signage to strictly enforce social distancing guidelines in areas where lines typically form
- Beverage service on the gaming floor includes water, coffee, soft drinks and beer only
- Closing the property Monday through Friday from 2 a.m. to 7 a.m. for deep cleaning.
- Providing hand sanitizing stations throughout the facility
Casinos were allowed to welcome gamblers back onto the gaming floors as of Monday, July 6th, when the state entered Phase Three of the economic reopening plan.
Encore Boston Harbor said it is scheduled to reopen July 12, and MGM Springfield is expecting to reopen on July 13.
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