Louisiana Gets Needed Revenue From Casinos
Louisiana continues to enjoy great revenues from the state's casinos and slots, helping to continue to fund recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. The gambling industry throughout the state took in $228.1 million in December 2007.
The Harrah's Casino in downtown New Orleans was the leader in income, generating $36.8 million alone. Riverboats were responsible for $157.8 million, and the state is considering adding another riverboat to the two already in existence in Baton Rouge, which would bring the statewide total to fourteen.
The four race tracks had winnings of $33.6 million, which includes the new slots casino at the historic New Orleans Fair Grounds, the oldest track operating in the country and a location that might have been lost to the waters of Katrina permanently, if not for slots and casino revenue.
While competition from gambling and casino spots in other states is on the increase, Louisiana is prepared to meet the challenge with new and improved facilities. Lake Charles, near the Texas border, already hosts three riverboats and the Delta Downs Casino, will soon have a second casino resort, to be built by Pinnacle.
The state's total take was well up from November, when revenue peaked at $202.8 million. In addition, the state has three Indian casinos, whose revenue is not included in the figures released.
