“We’re a 26-year-old industry that’s a very stable and strong and mature industry,” said Wes Ehrecke of the Iowa Gaming Association, an umbrella group for the state-licensed casinos.
“I believe that’s a very positive sign of what our industry is in providing a premiere entertainment destination,” he said of the fiscal 2017 revenue numbers. “There’s a lot of competition for the entertainment dollar.”
State commission administrator Brian Ohorilko said seven casinos posted higher revenue numbers in fiscal 2017, with Rhythm City in Davenport and Isle of Capri in Bettendorf leading the way after moving from riverboats to land-based facilities with total investments topping $170 million. Revenue and admissions spiked with the expansion of facilities and amenities at the new venues, he said.