By Jan MacKell
The year 2010 saw some unconventional changes in the gaming world of Cripple Creek. Refreshingly there is no real bad news to be had here, other than the closing of two casinos (one of which will reopen) and a slight dip in gaming revenues.
In February, the Imperial Hotel & Casino closed its doors. The casino suffered financial woes off and on ever since being purchased from the Mackin family of Cripple Creek’s melodrama fame in 1996. Bankruptcies and other problems plagued the casino, its historic hotel and fine dining restaurant. The Imperial finally threw in the towel, with many mourning the passing of what had been Cripple Creek’s oldest operating hotel and one of the first gaming establishments in town.
Most fortunately, the Imperial is receiving new life thanks to Cripple Creek City Councilman Gary Ledford. Last fall, Ledford was able to purchase the Imperial buildings at 3rd Street and Bennett Avenue. As of this writing, the buildings in their entirety are receiving a massive facelift both inside and out. Ledford already owns Carr Manor, the former Cripple Creek High School that has been converted into a beautiful five-star, historic hotel. There is little doubt that the Imperial Hotel will follow suit once restorations are complete. Be sure to look for Midland Station, which will open in the former dining room as a premier family restaurant.
Probably the most surprising news for the year was the sudden closing of the Gold Rush Hotel & Casino. As one of the first casinos to open with legalized gambling in 1991, the Gold Rush has often been considered a corner stone of the downtown area. Earlier this year, the Gold Rush closed following a dispute with the property owner at its location at the corner of 2nd Street and Bennett Avenue. For long time fans of the casino, however, fear not. Operators of the Gold Rush have plans to reopen in the newly renovated Imperial in spring of 2011.
In other casino news, Womack’s Casino has adopted the name of its parent company, Century Casinos. Over the last few years the casino has undergone some major changes inside to sport a more modern gaming atmosphere. The name change came complete with new awnings, signage and a new marketing campaign for the casino.
Finally, Gilpin County’s proposed change in the formula for gaming tax distribution, which was presented earlier this year, has been tabled until February. If passed, the proposal could have a significant impact on the amount of gaming funds Cripple Creek will receive in the future. Cripple Creek remains hopeful.
“The division of gaming staff is not in favor of it, nor is the attorney general’s office,” said City Finance Director Paul Harris.
That’s a good sign. In the meantime Cripple Creek will continue gearing up for 2011, with many events and celebrations taking place. Look for upcoming promos from the ever-popular Wildwood Casino and hotel packages from the Gold King Mountain Inn. Don’t miss Bronco Billy’s giveaways and the sought after 50 percent off coupon on any menu item at Baja Billy’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina in this week’s Gambler.
