Bally’s Atlantic City will temporarily close its casino floor next week to perform technology upgrades.
The Associated Press is reporting that the Boardwalk gambling parlor will close for 30 hours on Feb. 16. Only the casino will close. The hotel will stay open.
“Though the transition will not disrupt gaming during the upcoming holiday weekend and Bally’s AC is continuing to honor hotel reservations, we understand that these conditions are not ideal for our players and guests,” said Michael Monty, assistant general manager at Bally’s. “As such, customers are welcome to receive a refund on those days, if requested.”
Coincidently, the former Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino will be imploded at 9 a.m. on Feb. 17. Two city blocks separate Bally’s from the Plaza.
Overhaul at Bally’s
Caesars Entertainment sold Bally’s last year for $25 million to Rhode Island-based Twin River Worldwide Holdings. The regional gaming company subsequently changed its name to Bally’s Corp.
The state Division of Gaming Enforcement approved the casino’s request for a brief closure, according to the AP. Leland Moore, a spokesman for the state attorney general, whose office oversees the NJDGE, says the request is “to perform data system upgrades.”
“Based on information received from Bally’s, (it) will accommodate a complete IT overhaul to modernize all electronic gaming devices and systems,” Moore told the AP.
Here’s what we know
On Friday, the company sent PlayNJ more details.
The casino will close at 8 p.m. on Feb. 16 and reopen at 10 a.m. on Feb. 18.
When the casino reopens, a new customer rewards program will be in place. Guests can get their new Bally’s Rewards cards at the Players Club after the upgrade.
“The new program will provide greater rewards for Bally’s AC’s loyal players and guests, enhancing their overall gaming experience while maintaining players’ current tier status,” Monty said. “We look forward to implementing this transition and are excited for all of the new amenities and benefits that Bally’s AC will be offering in the months to come.”
Ongoing improvements on the Boardwalk
The new owners committed to investing at least $90 million into upgrading the aged and neglected Boardwalk casino over the next five years.
Planned capital improvements include a permanent sportsbook — in partnership with FanDuel — that should be completed by March.
There are several other items on the to-do list:
- Renovating more than 900 hotel rooms, creating 30 to 40 mini-suites
- Introducing an entirely new restaurant and bar portfolio that will be operational by summer
- Hotel exterior renovations
- Updated gaming products
- A revamped spa and fitness center
Bally’s was the third casino to open in Atlantic City. The property opened its doors in December 1979.
