Huanlegu Casino Set to Open in April, Releases Detailed Operational Plans
Huanlegu Casino is expected to open in April and has recently released detailed plans covering gaming configuration, dining services, and human resources. The casino has received regulatory approval and plans to operate 600 slot machines and 30 table games, emphasizing a smoke-free environment and 24/7 operations. After overcoming legal challenges, the project has restarted and is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the local area.
Casino Planning and Opening Progress
At a hearing in Harrisburg on Wednesday, Huanlegu Casino presented new renderings of the facility located in the Nittany Mall. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has approved its license to operate 600 slot machines and table games. The 94,000-square-foot casino will be open 24 hours a day and will maintain a smoke-free policy, a relatively unique approach within the state. General Manager Eric Pearson noted that the slot-machine license is expected to be approved in December. Construction is ahead of schedule, with completion planned for March 30.
Dining and Gaming Facilities
The casino will feature two restaurants and a central bar. Aces Social will offer a sports-themed but non-traditional sports-bar environment with a diverse menu, while Lucky Break Café will provide quick-service options such as pizza and burgers for players seeking fast meals.
Regarding gaming, the casino will initially offer 600 slot machines—86% of which will be low-denomination and 90% video-reel machines—with plans to expand to 750 units. Table games will include blackjack, roulette, and others, for which the operator has paid a $2.5 million authorization fee. At present, there are no plans to introduce sports betting or online gaming, though these may be considered in the future.
Human Resources and Security Measures
The casino expects to hire around 300 employees. In December and January, it will offer free dealer-training courses, with trainees receiving 20 hours of instruction per week at a wage of $15 per hour. Pearson emphasized the importance of training, stating that “there is only one chance to make a first impression.”
For security, every slot machine and table game will be equipped with surveillance cameras to ensure round-the-clock monitoring.
Project Background and Community Engagement
The project is led by SC Gaming, which secured its license in 2020 for $10 million. However, legal delays pushed progress until the issue was resolved in 2024. Saratoga Casino Holdings is now participating in the development. While some residents have expressed concerns about gambling addiction and crime, supporters estimate the casino could generate $1.4 to $1.6 million in annual tax revenue. The casino is located far from other gaming venues and plans to grow its workforce by training local employees.
