Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos to Begin Phased Reopening on May 18

Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos is going to reopen its Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River in North Carolina on May 18.

As the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) and North Carolina begin to lay out a framework for easing restrictions relating to COVID-19, 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.

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.

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“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,” Brooks Robinson, Senior Vice President and General Manager, said.