It’s been some time since players were allowed in a casino since COVID-19 took over the world. This deadly outbreak halted most of the world’s largest tournaments including the WSOP. That’s all about to change, though! People need some sense of normalcy in these tough times. Maybe poker will do the trick.
Many of Pennsylvania’s land casinos are beginning to open up the tables for poker players. Some are currently open, with others implementing a safe open plan for the coming days or weeks. As of now, four casinos have decided to re-open.
- Rivers Casino
- The Mount Airy
- Mohegan Sun
- Meadows Poker Room
Rivers Casino opens its doors
On October 23rd, Rivers Casino announced they were ready for business. Rivers worked closely with the Department of Health and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board before re-opening. Safety measures being implemented to help stop the spread of COVID include:
- Limited seating at all open tables.
- No eating or smoking at tables. However, a designated smoking area will be provided.
- Plexiglass partitions installed around certain areas of high traffic.
- Hand sanitizer stations at every poker table and throughout the casino.
- Players must wear a mask at all times.
The initial re-opening will not see all tables open to help practice social distancing and compliance with state laws that limit occupancy of businesses.
The Mount Airy
Much like Rivers Casino, The Mount Airy is also open to the public. With many of the same restrictions and safety protocols. Tables will be seven handed, with partitions at each table.
Face masks and hand sanitizer must be used when playing as well.
Mohegan Sun
The Mohegan Sun Casino was the first to open its doors on October 16th. President and General Manager, Anthony Carlucci, was dead set on opening quickly and safely.
“Over the past few months, Mohegan Sun Pocono has been laser-focused on preparing our property for a safe reopen. With the guidance of industry experts, regulatory agencies, and in closely mirroring the comprehensive protocols put in place by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment’s (MGE) flagship property in Connecticut, we feel we are well-prepared for our doors to open and can’t wait to welcome guests to a clean, safe and fun environment.”
Plastic cards will be used and switched out every six hours. Temperature checks will be performed at the entrance. And of-course, masks must be worn at all times.
Meadows Poker Room
Meadows Poker Room is the fourth casino to open in October. There will be just 14 tables running, with a cap on capacity set at 50%.
Meadows has also been in close contact with the Pennsylvania Control Board, health departments, and state leaders to ensure a safe re-opening.
Measures to be used include, face masks, hand sanitizer stations, no smoking, and a fog machine to disinfect the entire poker room every day.
“With this in mind, we have been working closely with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, state and local leaders, and public health officials to finalize comprehensive reopening protocols and new health and safety precautions. Our returning team members will be trained on these procedures, and our guests will see reminder signage about them throughout the property.”