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

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Written By Matt Schoch on July 13, 2020Last Updated on December 11, 2021

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The reopening of casino gambling in Detroit appears to be slipping further away with Michigan’s regression in the COVID-19 reopening process.

Amid a concerning second wave of infections following a challenging spring in southeast Michigan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer implemented stricter measures on Friday to address the situation.

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

For now, this mandate puts an end to smoking inside Detroit’s trio of casinos. However, it raises the question of when Greektown Casino-Hotel, MGM Grand Detroit, and MotorCity Casino will reopen.

Just over a week ago, there were expectations that the trio would be accessible in time for the Fourth of July weekend. However, it feels like a distant memory now.

Michigan coronavirus cases climb again

The order issued by Whitmer took effect on Monday and is accompanied by a potential misdemeanor charge that could result in a fine of up to $500. Whitmer expressed her thoughts in a statement by saying:

Wearing masks can decrease the risk of transmitting COVID-19 by approximately 70%, offering a significant opportunity to safeguard lives and shield our loved ones, friends, and community members from the transmission of this virus.

The governor proposed that critics should wear masks displaying their preferred political message, including an optional accessory expressing their aversion towards masks.

Last Thursday, the state announced a total of 446 new COVID-19 cases and nine additional deaths. In the past week, the Great Lakes State experienced a surge in new cases, reaching a six-week high of over 2,500 cases for the week ending on July 4.

Five days after sports betting opened in Detroit, Michigan casinos were closed on March 16.

Ohio casino dealing with new normal in Toledo

Meanwhile, Ohio’s Hollywood Casino Toledo grapples with its newfound reality just a one-hour drive away, southbound on I-75.

Customers seem to be adjusting smoothly to the changes, as reported by the Toledo Blade, three weeks after reopening.

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

All but one Michigan tribal casino remains open

Despite facing challenges, 22 out of 23 tribal casinos in Michigan remained open this week.

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

Individuals who were later confirmed positive had visited Odawa Casino in Petoskey, Soaring Eagle Casino Resort in Mount Pleasant, and Gun Lake Casino in Wayland, as announced earlier.

Kewadin, Turtle Creek announce possible exposure

Kewadin Casinos should be included in the list as the company has revealed that a customer, who was later confirmed positive for COVID-19, visited the Sault Ste. Marie location on both the morning of July 6 and the afternoon of July 7.

In addition, the guest availed themselves of the casino shuttle.

Kewadin Casinos shared on Facebook their dedication to upholding a hygienic and secure setting. They emphasized their unwavering commitment to implementing safety protocols, with the aim of curbing the transmission of COVID-19. They urged individuals who are unwell or experiencing symptoms to refrain from visiting and instead seek guidance from nearby health authorities. Additionally, they advised the public to wear masks, maintain social distancing, and frequently wash their hands when venturing into public spaces.

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

As per the Grand Traverse County Health Department, individuals should engage in self-monitoring for COVID-19 symptoms for a period of 14 days following their exposure.

Bingo room closing at Leelanau Sands

However, it should be noted that not all tribal casinos are operating as usual, even though none of them have closed their doors.

As of Friday, Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge made the decision to temporarily close its bingo room with immediate effect.

According to the announcement, there have been no reported health incidents and bingo will be rescheduled for a later date at the Peshawbestown casino.

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