Delays Announced for Golden Circle Casino at Wichita Greyhound Park

By Jane Shaw Senior Editor Updated: 04/06/2024

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We count on Jane to inform our readers about the latest slot games in the US market. With her passion for video games and a degree in engineering, she’s our gambling tech expert. Jane’s also active in our blog section, where she tackles the curiosities and changes in the industry.

Opening of Golden Circle Casino

There has been a lot of excitement and anticipation among gambling fans in Wichita, Kansas, due to plans for Phil Ruffin’s Golden Circle Casino at the Wichita Greyhound Park. However, it has now been reported that there has been an issue with the timeline. As a result, eager prospective patrons will have to wait a little longer for the grand opening of the facility.

Originally set to open in September of this year, the debut of the $128 million casino has been pushed back by a year, to September 2025. The delay was announced recently by a Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission official during a committee meeting. Various reasons have been outlined for the delay, including construction problems and elevator issues.

Progress Still Being Made on Casino Construction

Officials said that there were a few issues that had affected the original opening date for the casino, but that things were still running smoothly, and progress was still being made.

Randy Evans, the Government Relations Manager of KRGC, said:

The elevator shaft had some issues, and so they had to totally redo that. They couldn’t use the existing one. Nothing really out of the ordinary or sinister — it was just normal construction that got pushed back.

Despite the setback, construction crews have been hard at work, with bulldozing near completion and excavation underway to extend the structure on the north side. One exciting addition to the plans is Gilley’s Dance Hall and Saloon, a sprawling country music bar that officials believe will be a big hit with patrons.

People are eager to know what to expect from the casino, and a number of details have been released so far. The casino will boast 1,000 HHR machines, which are similar to slot machines but with a horse racing twist, allowing players to bet on past races.

There will also be a simulcasting establishment where bettors can wager on races from across the country.

Golden Circle will also feature an entertainment amphitheater, rooftop patio, smoothie bar, deli, and pizza by the slice, with officials claiming that it will be a one-stop shop for fun and excitement. For those looking for accommodation options, there will also be the 96-room name-brand hotel that Ruffin plans to construct once the casino refurbishment is complete.

Search for a GM and Vendor Selection for Machines

As preparations continue, Golden Circle officials have been busy behind the scenes. According to reports, the search is now on for a general manager to lead the operation. This person will play a crucial role in ensuring the casino’s success moving forward. It was also reported that the process of selecting a vendor for the HHR machines is now underway.

While the delay might be disappointing for those eager to visit the venue, officials believe that the wait will be worth it. Golden Circle will help to breathe new life into the Wichita entertainment scene, offering a unique mix of gaming, dining, and live entertainment designed to cater to locals and visitors to the area.