The Kansas Star Casino is closed for a couple of days so it can move into its permanent location. Workers are moving 1,400 slot machines from the current facility to the new one. The move started December 2nd.
“It's a multiple hour process, multiple day process. Moving 1-2 machines might sound relatively easy, do it for 8-10 hours, not so much,” said slot machine manager Alli Biar.
The slot machines are going to a permanent location on the other side of the building. That side will open Wednesday. Kansas Star General manager Scott Cooper says they've worked towards this day since the casino opened nearly one year ago.
“It's really exciting. A lot of memories where we are, but it's really exciting where we're going,” said Cooper.
Although once staff clears the floor, the work isn't quite done.
“Once all of the equipment, the slots and chairs are moved out of there, then we will gut this place, we have to double the fixed seats on the sides,” said Cooper.
A crew then has the task of transforming this makeshift gambling floor into an arena and equestrian center. The arena will open for various acts by midsummer. The equestrian center is targeted to open in 2015.
The Kansas Star Casino will re-open its doors at 8:00 Wednesday morning. It's a partial opening. The entire casino will have its grand opening December 21st.
