Southland Park upgrades to the tune of $11 million

11 May 2012

By Rudi Schiffer

The Mississippi River Flood of a year ago devastated the gaming industry which shut down in Tunica but when that door closed another opened wider for Southland Park Gaming & Racing in West Memphis, AR., which escaped the water and suddenly was the only gaming spot available to ever-eager gamblers.

"While our business was doing very well before the flood, that flood brought new gamers to our doors who had never experienced the Park before," said Troy Keeping President and General Manager. "It also put a focus on areas that would need upgrading to accommodate the new business and keep our customers happy here. Additionally, we began 24 hour operations."

Parent company, Delaware North, agreed with Keeping and appropriated $11 million for the work which is just about finished as final touches on the new lounge and gaming floor expansion come to a conclusion in July. The project is the latest in a series of $40 million improvements to the 55-year-old racing venue making it a leading player in the Southern gaming industry.

"Our customer service and the amenities and working conditions go hand-in-hand in providing great service," said Keeping. "We have now provided our staff with additional much needed kitchen and serving space and tools to keep our service high."

The project ensured that guests can make the most of their visits and be comfortable at the same time as they take in 200 new gaming machines, a new circular bar and lounge, permanent stage for promotions and entertainment, a new and improved players rewards club area and expansion for the World Market Buffet.

William Bissett, president of Delaware North Companies Gaming and Entertainment, said "the park has proved a great success story and the support from the region and state has been tremendous on the local and state economy."

It allowed for the addition of 60 new jobs bringing Southland Park’s current workforce over 600 which represents nearly an additional $2 million in payroll and benefits upping that to a total of $17 million. Tax contributions to West Memphis, Crittenden County and Arkansas rose by more than $3.4 million to just over $19.5 million annually.

"The Park is a pivotal fixture in the West Memphis community and will continue its role of supporting the area with jobs, business stability, and economic and charitable contributions," Keeping concluded.