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The Great Blue Heron Casino in Port Perry, Ont. is getting a significant facelift, with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation signing a redevelopment agreement with Ontario Gaming GTA LP (OGGLP) to make enhancements to create “a premier gaming and entertainment destination.”
“We are thrilled with what’s coming next for (Great Blue Heron) GBH and are looking forward to consulting with our membership about the development that will be taking place in our community,” said Mississaugas of Scugog Island Chief Kelly LaRocca. The First Nation has been running the GBH casino for two decades.
The Great Blue Heron name will remain the same; however, work will soon begin to revive and strengthen the visual elements of the casino’s brand. The Nation will also focus on the development of employment opportunities, procurement processes and community engagement throughout the span of the project, reads a press statement.
“As part of our commitment and partnership with the (Mississaugas of Scugog Island Nation), we are focused on building a state-of-the-art gaming entertainment facility that will continue to celebrate the heritage of the… community and provide exciting gaming options,” said Rod Baker, president and CEO of Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, a partner in the OGGLP. The proposed redevelopment is slated for completion by the end of 2018.
OGGLP was selected as the successful proponent by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation to operate the GTA Bundle, which includes three facilities in the Greater Toronto Area: OLG Slots at Woodbine, OLG Slots at Ajax Downs and Great Blue Heron Casino located on reserve lands of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation.
The closing for the acquisition of the GTA Bundle, including the signing of a Casino Operating and Services Agreement with OLG, was completed on Jan. 23.