No Reopening In Sight: Detroit Casinos Remain Closed As Pandemic Worsens

The return of casino gambling in Detroit appears to be increasingly distant as Michigan regresses in the COVID-19 reopening process.

In response to a concerning resurgence of infections following a challenging spring in southeast Michigan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer implemented stricter measures on Friday to control the situation.

Wearing face masks is mandatory in both indoor public places and crowded outdoor spaces. Previously, businesses had the option to enforce mask-wearing for their customers, but now it is a requirement.

For the time being, this mandate prohibits smoking within Detroit’s trio of casinos. It also raises the question of when Greektown Casino-Hotel, MGM Grand Detroit, and MotorCity Casino will resume operations.

Just over a week ago, there were hopes that the trio would be open in time for the Fourth of July weekend. However, the passage of time has made it feel much longer than just a week.

Michigan coronavirus cases climb again

Whitmer’s order, which became effective on Monday, includes a potential misdemeanor penalty of up to $500. In a statement, Whitmer emphasized that

Wearing masks can lower the risk of transmitting COVID-19 by approximately 70%, potentially saving lives and safeguarding our loved ones, friends, and community members from the virus.

The governor proposed that critics should consider wearing masks with their preferred political statements, which could even include a unique accessory expressing their dislike for masks.

Last Thursday, the state announced a total of 446 fresh COVID-19 cases and nine additional deaths. The Great Lakes State witnessed a surge in new cases last week, reaching a peak in over six weeks, with a count surpassing 2,500 cases for the week ending on July 4.

Detroit’s sports betting commenced just five days before the closure of Michigan casinos on March 16.

Ohio casino dealing with new normal in Toledo

In the meantime, Hollywood Casino Toledo is grappling with its newfound reality located approximately an hour’s drive south on I-75 in Ohio.

The Toledo Blade reports that customers seem to be adjusting smoothly to the changes, three weeks after reopening.

Employees must wear masks, while customers are not required to do so. Additionally, a minimum distance of 6 feet must be maintained in areas without a physical barrier.

All but one Michigan tribal casino remains open

This week, the majority of Michigan’s 23 tribal casinos, specifically twenty-two, managed to stay open despite encountering various difficulties.

The sole tribal casino in Brimley that is still closed is Kings Club Casino. However, its sister property, Bay Mills Resort & Casino, has already reopened and is located a little over 2 miles away.

Individuals who later tested positive had been in Odawa Casino in Petoskey, Soaring Eagle Casino Resort in Mount Pleasant, and Gun Lake Casino in Wayland, as previously announced by these establishments.

Kewadin, Turtle Creek announce possible exposure

After it was revealed that a customer, who later tested positive, had visited the Sault Ste. Marie location of Kewadin Casinos on both the morning of July 6 and the afternoon of July 7, the company should be included in the list.

In addition, the guest utilized the casino’s shuttle service.

Kewadin Casinos’ Facebook post emphasizes their unwavering dedication to upholding a hygienic and secure setting. They assure their continued diligence in implementing safety protocols to curb the transmission of COVID-19. In the event of illness or symptoms, individuals are urged to refrain from visiting and advised to contact local health authorities. Furthermore, the post emphasizes the importance of wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and frequent handwashing when venturing into public spaces.

According to 9&10 News, customers who were present at blackjack tables between 8:30 and 9:15 p.m. on July 5 at Turtle Creek Casino in Williamsburg may have been exposed.

The Grand Traverse County Health Department advises individuals who were exposed to COVID-19 to self-monitor for symptoms for a period of 14 days.

Bingo room closing at Leelanau Sands

Despite none of the tribal casinos re-closing their doors, it is important to note that it is not business as usual at every casino.

The bingo room at Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge will be temporarily closed effective immediately, as announced on Friday.

According to the announcement, there have been no health issues reported, and it stated that bingo will be rescheduled to a future date at the Peshawbestown casino.