Atlantic City – Senate President Steve Sweeney participated in the grand opening ceremonies of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City this morning where he lauded the positive impact the newly-opened casino and the new Ocean Resort Casino will add to the gaming sector and to the Atlantic City region.
“There is renewed life and a growing sense of optimism in Atlantic City,” said Senator Sweeney. “Two new casinos are opening and Stockton University’s new campus will open this fall. This means more jobs, more economic activity and the expansion of the state’s gaming sector. Hard Rock brings a well-known name to Atlantic City’s casinos that will help expand the city’s appeal.”
In addition to the Hard Rock, the Ocean Resort Casino is also opening with a new $35 million design of the 47 floor facility. The two new casinos combined project $500 million in annual gross gaming revenue and will increase Atlantic City’s property base by 29 percent, its room supply by 30 percent, and gaming space by 41 percent.
“Atlantic City has been a leader in the gaming industry and we are seeing more positive signs of growth and opportunities for the casinos and the region,” said Senator Sweeney. “Sports betting will certainly help to fuel continued economic growth. We don’t want to see these opportunities lost or undermined.”
The opening ceremonies for Hard Rock included the actor Michael B. Jordan, singer/songwriter Kiiara, and the current Miss America 2018, Cara Mund.