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Calgary Slots to Skyrocket

CALGARY, Alberta – As reported by the Calgary Herald: "The number of slot machines in and around Calgary will skyrocket by 80 per cent and push the government's gambling revenue from the area to almost half a billion dollars a year, if three planned casinos are awarded licences to operate.

"The snapshot, from Alberta Gaming projections, has sparked fears that the city and province have hit the gambling saturation point.

"…The new details come after a Canada West Foundation study found Albertans are the biggest gamblers in the country, with per capita losses of $886 per year.

"Alberta Gaming figures show there are 1,896 slot machines in Calgary's five casinos, as well as 1,447 video lottery terminals, or VLTs, in bars within a 30-kilometre radius of the city centre.

"Three proposed casinos would push the number of slot machines in the area to 3,395 -- an 80 per cent, or 1,499 machine, increase.

"Alberta has a provincewide cap of 6,000 VLTs, which are found in bars and issue a ticket that is redeemable for a cash prize. But there is no limit on the number of slot machines, which are found in casinos and dispense cash.

"…Alberta Gaming figures show the province will reap an estimated $1.1 billion in gambling revenue from 5,992 VLTs and 6,513 slot machines this year.

"Based on these figures, the government can expect an annual windfall of $90,000 per machine. If Calgary's proposed casinos pass final hurdles, that translates to $435 million for 4,842 machines in the city area…"

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