New Casinos To Open In New York State

There is probably a good reason for the timing of Turning Stone's planned $20 million expansions announced recently.  Just a couple of hours away, the first non-Indian casino in upstate New York is getting ready to open it's doors.

Tiaoga Downs in Nichols, New York is about 120 miles from Turning Stone.  It was formerly a Video Lottery Terminal "racino" that has been redeveloped as a full service casino.  They are currently planning to be up and running by the end of this month.

Within the next year, The Rivers Casino and Resort is expected to open just off the Thruway in Schenectady, about 90 miles east of Turning Stone.  It will include gaming tables, slots and a 163 room hotel.

According to the Times Union, none of the new casinos will allow smoking.  Turning Stone has also announced that it's main casino will be non-smoking.