FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 8, 2020
Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos Announce Reopening Plan
Phased reopening starting Monday, May 18
Social distancing processes in place
Furloughed employees begin returning to work
Almost sixty days after closing their doors to help slow the spread of COVID-19, Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos will begin a gradual reopening of Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River on Monday, May 18, 2020.
As the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) and North Carolina begin to lay out a framework for easing restrictions relating to the pandemic, the casinos are looking forward to a return to operation, but with extensive health and safety precautions in place for the safety of employees and guests. Areas such as the gaming floor, hotel and some restaurants, where social distancing can be practiced will be the first to open, with significant limitations on occupancy. Areas where social distancing is not possible, such as the spa, valet, poker, buffet and concerts, will have to remain closed until it is appropriate to reopen.
To make social distancing possible, access to the casinos will be by invitation only at first with small groups of customers receiving the invitation by email starting as early as May 13. During this initial phase, only invited guests will be able to make hotel reservations, or access the properties. The number of invitations may increase over time as it becomes appropriate to do so. Members of the EBCI will also be able to access both casinos during this period of time.
Given this phased reopening, furloughed employees will begin returning to work as their respective work areas ramp up operation. Before beginning work, each employee will complete a screening, which will include a questionnaire and temperature check, and be required to wear a face mask while on duty.
Reflecting on the closure, Brooks Robinson, Senior Vice President and General Manager said “This is uncharted territory for the casino industry, but what is clear is that when we return to work it will not be exactly as it was prior to closing. We look forward to welcoming back our guests and team members, also understanding that social distancing is going to be a part of our business and lives for a while.”
ABOUT Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos – An Enterprise of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina. The Casino has over 3,000 games. The property also features over 1,100 hotel rooms, the Le Fu Men gaming area, 10 restaurants, the luxurious 18,000 square foot Mandara Spa, nine retail shops and the 3,000 plus seat Event Center. In addition to the 56-acre property, guests have privileged access to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indian-owned Sequoyah National Golf Club. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is also home to the UltraStar Multi-tainment center which features 24 bowling lanes, an arcade, and 3 bars. Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel is located near Murphy, North Carolina. The Cherokee County, NC facility features over 1,000 games, The Food Market, Landing Cafe and a 300-room, full service hotel. Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel hosts the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center which features 16 bowling lanes, an arcade, and bar.
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