Study shows economic benefit of casino gaming in Kentucky

by Brisnet.com

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday released preliminary findings from a

statewide study commissioned by a partnership of Kentucky horse industry

interests. The study, conducted by the independent research firm Spectrum Gaming

Group, shows the economic impact of adding casino-style gaming at eight Kentucky

racetrack locations would produce $1.7 billion dollars of economic impact during

the first full year of casino operations, resulting in a net gain of

approximately 11,000 full-time jobs, paying $290 million in wages annually.

The Kentucky Gaming Market Analysis and Impacts Report was completed in December

2011 by Spectrum Gaming Group, based in Linwood, New Jersey, and projects the gross

gaming revenue generated by casino gaming at eight racetrack locations across

the Commonwealth, as well as casino gaming impacts on Kentucky's economy,

employment and its signature horse-racing industry. Key findings include the

following statewide outcomes during the first full year of casino operations:

When taking the above estimates into consideration, the study finds that eight

prospective racetrack casinos would generate first-year gross state product -- or

total economic impact -- of $1.7 billion.

"Expanded gaming is not only about protecting Kentucky's signature horse

industry, it is a way to generate substantial investment and job growth in the

Commonwealth," Dave Adkisson, president and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber, said.

"This study shows we have an opportunity to not only stem job losses, but to

expand and grow them within our borders by recapturing economic activity from

other states. Expanded gaming is an appropriate response to other states'

assault on our signature industry."

"This study reinforces that it is time to keep Kentuckians' money in the

Commonwealth and create new revenue streams that benefit our state and its

citizens," Vince Gabbert, vice president and COO of Keeneland Association, said. "More

than 80 percent of Kentuckians polled have asked for the right to vote on this

issue, and we agree their voices should be heard."

"Through this comprehensive market analysis, we can see the overwhelmingly

positive impact casinos at racetracks will have on Kentucky's economy and

employment picture, in addition to helping preserve and grow Kentucky's

signature horse-racing industry," Brett Hale, senior vice president of corporate

and government relations for Churchill Downs Incorporated, noted. "The forecast

provides compelling data, and we look forward to sharing this information with

our leaders in Frankfort as we continue our efforts to move our Commonwealth

forward."