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Casino, Racetrack Changes New Mexico Town

HOBBS, New Mexico – As reported by the Odessa American: "For almost 30 years, Buck Jones had Bootsie's Western Wear on Broadway Street in downtown Hobbs, N.M.

"But with the opening of the Black Gold Casino and pending opening of Zia Park Racetrack, Jones decided to move his store to the north side of town.

"…The north side of town has also attracted shopping centers, banks, national chain restaurants and stores that used to be nonexistent in Hobbs. Since its formation, Hobbs has relied mostly on oil and gas for its economy.

"…And there's more to come, although names are unavailable right now.

"…Scott Smith, chairman-elect of the Hobbs Chamber of Commerce, has lived in town for 25 years and says the diversification is 'refreshing and encouraging.'

"…The opening of Zia Park Racetrack on Sept. 23 is bound to draw even more visitors, officials said. The casino estimated its visitors at 1.2 million a year and has since updated that figure to 2 million-plus, Battaglini said.

"The casino, which opened in November 2004, has brought in $23 million in the first six months of operation, Battaglini said. That includes jobs, visitors, hotel stays, food, fuel and retail sales, he said…"

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