Gaming regulators warily watch closings in Atlantic City

(Harrisburg) — Pennsylvania gaming regulators are watching declines in Atlantic City’s gambling industry, butthey aren’t concerned about the commonwealth’s own casinos, yet.

Pennsylvania’s gaming revenue dropped nearly three percent for the most recent fiscal year, from $3.14 billion to $3.05 billion, especially hurt by a decline at slot machines.

Revenue at the machines tumbled four and a half percent compared to the previous year, with declines at 10 of the 11 casinos in the state.

Commission spokesman Richard McGarvey says it’s aware of what has happened in New Jersey’s biggest gambling market.

“Atlantic City really has almost lost half its gaming revenue since casinos opened in Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York and other states. So certainly, I don’t think it comes as a surprise that some of the facilities are probably going to close there.”

Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino recently announced plans to close in September, while two other Atlantic City casinos plan to close in the near future.

“Competition has really heated up over the last few years on the East Coast. It’s not only affecting New Jersey, but in the end I think it affects every state and what they’re trying to get from tax revenue out of it.”

A plan to introduce small games of chance in Pennsylvania bars and taverns has failed to generate the excitement once hoped, with far fewer license processed than once estimated.