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Saratoga Casino Holdings announced on Friday that it officially owns the majority of Pennsylvania’s newest property, Happy Valley Casino.
Saratoga Casino Holdings purchased a 60% stake of the casino from SC Gaming, who won the original bid back in September 2020.
Friday’s announcing was more of a formality, as the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board approved the change of ownership last June.
Still working together
The two companies plan on working side-by-side, combining Saratoga Casino Holdings’ operational experience with SC Gaming’s local and developmental expertise.
SC Gaming CEO Eric Pearson said in a statement:
“This agreement represents a significant milestone for the Happy Valley Casino project as we move toward opening just months away.
“Partnering with Saratoga positions us to deliver a modern gaming destination that meets the highest regulatory and operational standards, creates meaningful employment opportunities for the Community, and serves as a powerful new driver of economic activity for Centre County.”
Saratoga Casino Holdings is newly minted into the Pennsylvania gambling market. The PGCB granted a license to the company last month.
Now that Saratoga Casino Holdings is officially part of the Keystone State, CEO Sam Gerrity said:
“Happy Valley Casino marks an exciting new chapter for Saratoga Casino Holdings. Pennsylvania is one of the most dynamic gaming markets in the country, and this partnership with SC Gaming provides an outstanding opportunity to bring Saratoga’s proven operating experience to State College.
“We are proud to be part of a project that will create jobs, support the local economy, and enhance entertainment options for the region.”
Opening plans
Happy Valley Casino is slated to open in April. The PGCB has already granted the property with slots and table games licenses.
It is expected to open with 600 slots and 30 table games with plans of expanding to 750 slots and 40 table games. The property could generate $1.2 million in slot taxes in the first year, rising gradually as revenue grows.
Construction is underway as Happy Valley Casino is expected to open as the 18th casino in Pennsylvania.
