The "honeymoon capital of the world" could be the new "gambling capital of the world" for Ontario casinos if Premier Doug Ford gets his wish.
On Monday, Ford visited the Niagara Falls area to announce Destination Niagara – a gambling mecca that aims to add and attract new attractions and expansions in the area, where more than 47,000 people reside and more than 13 million travelers visit.
The new initiatives will focus on five key areas: attractions, transportation, gaming, wine/restaurants, and arts/culture.
Gaming has been a big part of the region's success as Niagara Falls’ three casinos attract over five million visitors annually and generate over $500 million in annual gaming revenue.
Those casinos, which span both the Canadian and U.S. sides of the border, include Fallsview Casino Resort (largest in Canada), Casino Niagara and Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. Each of them feature an Ontario sportsbook.
"We intend to elevate the Niagara gaming experience by exploring options to expand existing casinos, including potentially opening the market to multiple new, world-class casinos. More options would enhance Niagara’s reputation as a must-visit, world-class destination that rivals others across the globe," said in a news release from the province of Ontario.
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The goal of the overall strategy is to attract 25 million annual visitors and double the region’s tourism impact, generating an additional $3 billion for Ontario’s GDP every year.
"Ontario’s investment in Niagara strengthens its position as a premier entertainment and tourism hub and reinforces the province’s commitment to a modern, competitive gaming sector. This support will allow OLG and our partners to enhance the visitor experience, drive new economic activity and create long-term benefits for the people and businesses of the Niagara Region. We look forward to working with Premier Ford, Minister Cho and local stakeholders to bring this vision to life and ensure Niagara continues to grow as a world-class destination," said Jim Warren, Chair, Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG).
Other plans call for a new amusement park, expanding transit service, and revitalizing the Niagara District Airport, so more flights and larger planes can land in the Niagara Region.
More information on Destination Niagara can be found in this press release on their website.
