DraftKings sportsbook arrives at New York State's Del Lago casino

Construction of a 6,000 square-foot lounge, which will sit where the former Vine bar and grille was located, is officially underway.

The Sportsbook will feature wagering kiosks for players to easily place bets, and cashiers will be available to make placing bets easier. Real-time odds boards will also provide a look at how games are progressing.

"We are excited to begin the construction of our new Sportsbook and offer this additional amenity for our guests," said Lance Young, vice president of gaming operations. "This next phase in construction marks an incredible step forward for del Lago Resort & Casino. We are working closely with our partner DraftKings to ensure the lounge is truly a remarkable, state-of-the-art experience for our guests."

Meanwhile, Mark Juliano, executive vice president and general manager at Del Lago, says they aren’t ready to talk about projections. "We can share that we know the sports book will have a positive impact on our business,” Juliano said when reached about the announced construction. “We are always looking at new and innovative amenities, promotions and offerings to offer our current and prospective guests. Our guests have been asking for sports betting and we are thrilled to be able to offer this exciting opportunity to them."

In March, the casino in Seneca County asked the state Gaming Commission to allow it to reduce the number of slot machines it had on its 90,000 square-foot gaming floor. As for the reduction in slot machines, Juliano says a plan is in place to restore at least some of those machines. "Once the new Sportsbook opens, del Lago Resort & Casino will look to increase its number of slots again,” he explained after the announcement. “We continually survey our guests and listen to their feedback/requests and ensure that we offer the latest and greatest that they can’t find at other casinos. We are always evolving to ensure we create a fun and different experience that guests can’t get anywhere else and ensure our customer service is top-notch."

Del Lago announced several weeks ago that hundreds of slot machines would be removed from the gaming floor to make way for the sportsbook. Even with that reduction, tourism reps and officials throughout Seneca County remain optimistic that the right moves are being made at the casino to keep growing.

Sports betting is expected to be fully-approved by state lawmakers by the end of June, when this year’s session wraps up. It passed a crucial hurdle last week with the Gaming Commission approving a set of governing rules.