The gaming market in Puerto Rico is seeing significant growth, with several properties investing in upgrades to enhance their offerings. One such property is Casino Metro in San Juan, which is investing $6.2 million to improve its gaming and entertainment options.
Ismael Vega, the general manager of Casino Metro, shared with local media outlet El Vocero that the goal of the investment is to simplify the customer experience and introduce new gaming options. The expansion initiative, which has been in progress for the past two years, is adding 7,000 square feet to the existing 23,000-square-foot area.
The $6.2 million investment is divided with $2.5 million allocated to construction and the remaining $3.7 million used to acquire 150 new gaming machines, bringing the total number of machines to over 650. Additionally, six more gaming tables, including four blackjack tables and two roulette tables, will be introduced.
Vega estimates that the inclusion of 150 machines annually will result in an approximate additional contribution of $2.9 million to designated recipients of tax benefits in Puerto Rico, bringing the casino’s annual contribution to the treasury to $24 million.
In addition to the expansion, Casino Metro has also invested $2 million to modernize the machine system over the past year. The second phase of expansion, set for 2024, will include new amenities such as bathrooms, an entertainment platform, and a redesigned bar and lounge.
While an official inauguration date for the upgrades is yet to be determined, it is anticipated to be between December and January, with the new initiatives bringing around 30 jobs to the casino.
Meanwhile, the casino’s sports betting division, Metro Bets with Caesars Sportsbook, is approaching its one-year anniversary in December. The in-person operation has 5,500 registered clients, while an additional 2,000 use the online platform.
Furthermore, the Puerto Rico Gaming Commission has clarified to casino operators in San Juan that despite the city’s Public Order Code, which establishes a curfew and restrictions on alcohol sales, the commission’s mandate trumps city law, allowing the casinos to continue operating without these limitations.
Vega mentioned that casino operators have agreed to take a responsible approach to alcohol sales, ensuring that they are controlled within the establishments. With these investments and clarifications, San Juan’s casinos are set to continue thriving in the region.
