Casino Moose Jaw is slated to undergo extensive renovations for the first time in its 21-year history.
Announced in mid-May and commencing in late June, the $5 million project is part of SaskGaming’s ongoing commitment to Saskatchewan casinos. Once completed, the Casino Moose Jaw upgrades will end the Crown Corporation’s multi-year modernization plan to enhance its gaming facilities.
According to the Saskatchewan provincial government, the move intends to create “a brighter, more welcoming, and convenient environment for guests” at the Canadian casino.
Previously, Casino Regina was the latest site to experience a face-lift. Brian Miller, director of communications for SaskGaming, said the company’s penultimate project lasted four years and cost over $20 million.
Moose Jaw renovations to focus mainly on customer experience
For a gaming facility that saw about 38,000 visitors per month last year, SaskGaming wants to reward the loyalty.
“When people step into Casino Moose Jaw, we want them to see that that casino reflects our commitment and (to) stay on the cutting edge of casino gaming in our province,” said Miller.
To get there, the renovations will mainly focus on the gaming and food and beverage areas of the casino. Specifically, it will include brighter lights, new carpet and an updated floor plan to improve flow and, subsequently, guests’ experience.
Ultimately, for SaskGaming, modernizing the province’s wagering locations deepens its commitment to providing community members with the greatest possible experience when visiting casino grounds.
Miller provides example of what customers can expect to see
For a better idea of what the upgrades will look like, Miller pointed towards the work done at Casino Regina. He said that anyone who’s walked through the property recently will understand what to expect regarding the upcoming renovations at Moose Jaw.
This is big news for Casino Moose Jaw, especially considering the facility had only ever received a single, modest upgrade. Prior to last month’s announcement, the sole renovation – in 2009 – expanded the gaming floor. It is now 12,000 square feet.
Notably, Moose Jaw will remain open during the renovations, with tarps covering the affected areas, per Miller.
Historic renovations follow strong rebound for SaskGaming
As it was for a lot of businesses, 2020-21 was not kind to SaskGaming. Dealing with closures stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, the company absorbed a net loss of $13.4 million. However, in 2021-22, SaskGaming generated $19.1 million, according to its annual report.
The modernization projects at Casino Regina and Casino Moose Jaw are part of a $2.1 billion plan by Saskatchewan’s Crown Corporations in 2023-24. Per the province, such a plan will:
- Enhance player safety and reliability
- Better serve customers
- Support the province’s growing economy