Hard Rock reveals findings of North Jersey casino

Conducted by Hart Research Associates as part of an ongoing review of legislation to potentially allow for gaming expansion in New Jersey outside of Atlantic City, the statewide survey speaks to a number of sentiments regarding the current legislation and unlike past surveys, tests specific ballot language.

The survey reveals the following key findings:

• Nearly three-fifths of potential voters favor a proposal to amend the state constitution to allow for the expansion;
• More than half identify the Meadowlands as their clear and overwhelming favorite location for a new casino; and
• There is clear voter preference for a proposal that does not limit the operation of new casinos only to those who are currently running casinos in Atlantic City.

"Senator Sweeney has shown great courage by taking on this issue and Speaker Prieto has shown willingness to compromise by agreeing to reduce the number of licenses from three to two. The good news is that the polling shows if the proposal is presented right on the ballot, the legislation would pass. However, there are certainly concerns, such as the current requirement for both proposed casinos to be operated by current Atlantic City operators, as well as the amount of money going to Atlantic City which this survey discusses," said Jeff Gural, chairman of New Meadowlands Racetrack LLC.

"Clearly the most important thing if we are going to be able to create jobs and billions of dollars in new revenue is that the language in the referendum is approved by the voters. 83% of respondents do not support the concept that both licenses have to go to current operators in Atlantic City. We have been advised that a legal challenge might also delay these two projects if that provision is included," Gural remarked.

Additionally, when voters were polled on their favorability of one of the casinos being a Hard Rock branded property, the survey revealed that 59% of participants strongly favored the project being a part of the proposal.

"We have always believed in our brand and are excited that the survey results further support the brand's strength throughout New Jersey. We are, however, mostly excited for the opportunity to work with Speaker Prieto and Senate President Sweeney to support citizens of New Jersey through carefully allocated tax revenue that also provides relief for the Atlantic City community," said Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International.