Pickering, ON — Poker players and casino enthusiasts in the Greater Toronto Area will need to remain patient, as the Pickering Casino Resort continues to delay its grand opening. Originally slated to open in April 2020, the resort’s debut was halted due to the pandemic and remains in limbo as Ontario’s casinos and poker rooms stay closed under provincial health mandates.
A Promising Start Put on Hold
“Pickering Casino Resort was scheduled to open to the public when the temporary closures were announced,” said Corey Dalton, president of Unifor Local 1090, which represents casino workers in the region. “The casino is expected to bring thousands of new, high-quality employment opportunities to the Durham Region.”
Dalton emphasized that while there may be minor employment disruptions, job losses are not expected to be significant or long-term. Workers and management alike remain hopeful for a near-future reopening once provincial authorities give the green light.
Safety Will Be a Top Priority
When Pickering Casino Resort does open its doors, patrons can expect a very different gaming environment, with a strong focus on health and safety protocols to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
“Local 1090 will collaborate closely with (operator) Great Canadian Gaming to ensure the safety of our members is the absolute top priority,” Dalton added. “We’ll be reviewing all available safeguards, including increased sanitation, protective screens, limited seating at tables, reduced capacity, and pre-entry guest screening.”
More Than Just a Casino
While the casino is the centerpiece, Pickering Casino Resort is just one component of a much larger $2 billion development project. Once complete, the venue will include:
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Fine dining restaurants
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Retail spaces
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Convention and event facilities
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A luxury hotel
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Film studios
In February 2020, officials had confirmed that construction was nearing completion—further fueling anticipation for a venue that promises to become a major entertainment and tourism hub in Ontario.
Until reopening plans are confirmed, both employees and guests will have to sit tight and await further updates from provincial health authorities and Great Canadian Gaming.
