Boyd's Valley Forge first Pennsylvania casino to close over coronavirus

Boyd currently expects Valley Forge Casino Resort will remain closed for 14 days until March 27, in compliance with the governor's directive.

2020-03-13

United States

Reading time 1:29 min

While there have been no reported cases at the property, the company said it will close the venue to the public on Friday at 6:00 am until March 27. The governor said Montgomery County is the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak, where there are 13 of the state’s 22 cases.

Boyd Gaming Corporation announced Thursday that Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf ordered the closure of all public schools, entertainment venues and community centers in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, as a precautionary measure due to local cases of COVID-19. This includes Valley Forge Casino Resort.

While there have been no reported cases at the property, the company said it will close Valley Forge to the public on Friday at 6:00 am EDT. Boyd currently expects Valley Forge will remain closed for 14 days until March 27, in compliance with the governor's directive.

“The safety and well-being of our team members and customers is our utmost priority,” the operator said in a news release. “Starting in February, Boyd Gaming has been following stringent CDC-recommended protocols at its properties nationwide, including frequent handwashing by team members, increased placement of hand sanitizers and increased sanitation of frequently-touched surfaces. The Company has been advising all team members who are experiencing flu-like symptoms to go home immediately and contact their health care professional.”

“No mass gatherings should be held, including conferences and rallies. By closing these facilities, we can control the spread of this disease, that’s the hope. And we can redirect our public safety and health officials to where they are needed the most,” Wolf said in a press conference, CBS reports.

The governor said Montgomery County is the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak where there are 13 of the state’s 22 cases. Among the cases are a doctor and a police officer — people with broad contacts in the community. “The goal is not to shut anybody down, the goal is to keep Pennsylvania safe and by taking action, decisive action to mitigate, we’re moving beyond simply containing,” Wolf said.

Boyd said it is continuing to monitor developments related to COVID-19 and reinforcing its policies as necessary. Customers who have reservations at Valley Forge during the closure period should call (610) 354-8118 for further information and assistance.