Gaming News

N.H. track could close without slots

SALEM, New Hampshire -- As reported by The Boston Globe: "Rockingham Park will close if slot machines aren't allowed soon at the once-prominent thoroughbred racetrack, according to the track's manager.

Racing bets were down about 7 percent last year, and bingo operations have dropped from seven days a week to five because of a lack of business. The state Legislature is considering two bills that would allow slot machines, but Gov. John Lynch made no mention of expanded gambling in his budget address last week. Lynch has said he remains skeptical about expanded gambling because he worries about the state's quality of life.

"'The time line grows shorter. The reality is there will be something else on the property if legislation isn't passed soon,' said Ed Callahan, Rockingham Park's general manger. 'Racing is not the entertainment option it once was.'

The House Finance committee plans to tour both Rockingham Park and the Seabrook Greyhound Track as it considers the legislation. But it will be a hard sell for a Legislature that has repeatedly rejected attempts to expand gambling in the state.

"...Supporters of allowing slot machines at Rockingham Park estimate it could bring in more than $200 million a year in revenue for the state. But the gambling industry isn't recession proof. Revenues at Connecticut casinos are down close to 20 percent, and a racetrack with slot machines in Rhode Island is facing bankruptcy three years after it was purchased and renovated..."

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