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The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) approved a proposal from Rivers Casino Pittsburgh on Wednesday that would bring significant upgrades and a reconfiguration to the property’s gaming floor, which includes high-limit areas and amenities.
Construction on the project would begin as soon as the Pennsylvania retail casino is ready. The majority of the improvements are targeted for a Q1 2027 completion.
Slots and tables enhancements
Rivers Casino Pittsburgh Assistant General Manager Andre Barnabei told the PGCB in a presentation that the property plans to subtract 132 slots from the gaming floor. The machines have an average age of 12 years, according to Barnabei.
The property plans to add 30 high-limit slots to keep up with demand. Barnabei noted that a previous increase of nine back in 2024 “resulted in a substantial increase of net win.”
Barnabei told the PGCB:
“Through some studies, through some guest interactions, and through the general sense of high occupancy within our high-limit room, we need to expand this space to continue to provide the types of games and the types of set-up our guests are desiring.”
There are no middle seats, meaning more space between machines to provide guests with comfort.
In addition to slots, a refresh to the current high-limit space is in order, with a new bar, carpet, wall coverings, TVs, and chairs.
The property is planning for an additional high-limit parlor room, which would feature the following:
- Two semi-private blackjack tables
- Exclusive cashier window
- Furniture
- Enhanced audio/visual
Barnabei noted there have been more out-of-town groups visiting the property, giving it inspiration for the additional parlor room.
New bar and VIP proposal
Spiral Bar has been at the Rivers property since it opened. However, Barnabei said the bar has reached the end of its life.
Rivers is proposing the following upgrades to the new area, with an anticipated opening date of around Thanksgiving:
- Adding 570 square feet
- Seven more seats
- Enhanced AV technology including state-of-the-art televisions and sound system
- Ability for increased operating efficiency
The idea is to bring a new modern feel, with bright colors, to the area, Barnabei said.
In addition, Rivers Casino Pittsburgh is proposing a new VIP area for its top-end players. The plan is to include all new furniture, carpets, wall coverings, paintings, and a refresh of the bar.
The property’s credit office and satellite cages would move to the high-limit area on the south end of the floor.
The upgrades reflect Rivers Casino Pittsburgh’s continued investment in Pennsylvania’s competitive gaming market, particularly among high-limit players seeking premium gaming experiences.
