Empire City Reopens in the Age of Coronavirus

Courtesy Empire City Casino

With a fleet of enhanced safety measures and restrictions on capacity, Yonkers’ Empire City Casino is set to reopen to the public on September 21.

After a six-month closure due to statewide restrictions related to the coronavirus, Yonkers’ Empire City Casino is finally ready to open its doors on September 21. The re-opening however will come with a fleet of changes, all geared toward ensuring the safest possible experience for guests. These will include temperature checks for employees and gamers alike, a cap at 25 percent capacity, and required mask wearing.

Additionally, the MGM Resorts casino will initiate physical distancing policies for all guests and employees, with physical barriers installed in locations where distancing may be difficult, as well as standalone hand-washing stations, increased surface cleaning, and use of digital restaurant menus among several other safety measures.

According to CEO and President of MGM Resorts Bill Hornbuckle, it all amounts to a clear indication of the seriousness with which the company is tackling the threat of COVID-19. “This has been an unimaginably difficult and challenging time, and as we reopen our doors and welcome back team members and guests, we owe our gratitude to all healthcare and essential workers and those providing resources to the community,” says Hornbuckle in a statement. “It’s been several months since we were forced to close, so it is with strong emotion that we welcome our team members back to work. Health and safety remain our first priority, and our commitment to New York has never been stronger.”

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While food and beverages will be prohibited on the gaming floor, both slots and electronic table games will be open, as will onsite restaurants including The Pub and Empire City Chophouse. State guidelines currently prohibit on-property wagering for the Yonkers Raceway as well as both the opening of bars and beverage service on the casino floor. However, with so many precautions being taken along with a solid assortment of attractions, Empire City is counting on residents returning to the newly reopened casino.

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