Parq Casino Vancouver is aiming to expand its gambling operations by proposing a significant increase in its slot machine count. The downtown casino has submitted an application to the City of Vancouver to add 300 additional machines, which would increase its total from 600 to 900, marking a 50% growth.
Currently, Parq Casino reports having the lowest slot machine density among the Lower Mainland’s casinos. The proposal highlights that the current gaming capacity is inadequate to satisfy the growing demand. It estimates that two-thirds of the gambling revenue from residents of Vancouver is currently being spent at casinos located outside the city.
The site of Parq Casino replaced the former Edgewater Casino at the Plaza of Nations, maintaining the same gaming capacity of 600 slot machines and 75 table games as its predecessor. The Edgewater Casino had not increased its number of slot machines since 2005 or added more table games since 2007. However, the demand for gambling has increased substantially over the years. Vancouver’s population has grown from about 560,000 to 700,000 over the past two decades, while the broader region’s population has surged from 2.1 million to over three million. Tourism, too, has risen, putting additional pressure on local gambling establishments.
To accommodate the proposed 300 extra slot machines, no changes would be needed to the building’s exterior or structure. If the city authorities approve the expansion, it will be rolled out gradually over one to two years. The casino currently spans 72,000 square feet across two floors, with ample space on the second level. The existing floor space dedicated to gaming is sufficient to support a 50% increase in slot machines. The application indicates that the space could support up to 1,200 slot machines in theory, but such an expansion isn’t being considered at this time. This expansion proposal comes shortly after Vancouver’s city council relaxed casino restrictions, making it easier for such facilities to expand.
For the city, this expansion represents a potential boost in tax revenue. According to provincial policy, municipalities receive 10% of the net gambling revenue generated by casinos within their boundaries each year. In the 2023/2024 fiscal year, the City of Vancouver collected $6 million from Parq Casino’s revenues. With the proposed addition of 300 slot machines, the city is projected to receive an additional $2.7 million to $3.1 million over the first three years.
Since 1999, up to the 2023/2024 fiscal year, Vancouver has collected a total of $159.1 million in casino revenue. Over just the past three fiscal years, the city earned $19.3 million in combined gambling revenue from both Parq Casino and Hastings Racecourse and Casino. The promise of increased revenue is a compelling argument for the expansion, appealing to a city planning for future investments.
Another perspective comes from community advocates who express concerns about the social impact of expanding gambling facilities. While the economic benefits are evident, some argue that increased gambling options could lead to higher levels of gambling addiction and associated social problems. They urge the city to consider these potential issues before approving expansions.
However, the casino argues that it’s merely responding to customer demand and aims to keep gambling revenue within Vancouver. With an increase in tourism and a growing population, especially in the downtown area, the demand for more entertainment options is inevitable. Parq Casino is keen on meeting these expectations and believes that a larger, more versatile gaming environment will improve customer satisfaction and maintain competitiveness in the region. The casino’s representative remarked that the expansion is a necessary move to prevent losing more customers to casinos outside the city.
In a competitive market, staying relevant and meeting consumer expectations is crucial. Parq Casino’s expansion plan is a calculated response to these market dynamics. It’s not just about increasing the number of slot machines but also about ensuring the casino remains a preferred choice for entertainment among both locals and tourists. As Vancouver continues to grow, so too does the need for comprehensive entertainment solutions that can cater to a diverse and expanding demographic.
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