Pennsylvania Gaming Board Renews Presque Isle Downs and Casino License

The Board determined that PID, LLC had met the obligations of its existing license, qualifying it for renewal. The decision followed a comprehensive review process that included both public input and operator testimony. A public hearing was held in September 2024 in Summit Township, where casino representatives presented evidence and testimony regarding operations since the last license renewal. Community members were also invited to provide feedback on the casino’s impact.

The Board also reviewed reports and recommendations from state and local officials, community organizations, the PA State Police, and multiple Gaming Control Board offices, including Enforcement Counsel, Investigations and Enforcement, Compulsive and Problem Gaming, and Casino Compliance.

An additional hearing took place in Harrisburg in May and continued today, allowing Board members to further question representatives from Presque Isle Downs and its parent company, Churchill Downs. The renewal vote had been delayed earlier this year while the Board requested more information on the casino’s financial health after its General Manager publicly raised concerns about a potential closure.

Board Chair Denise Smyler emphasized that the decision was made after an extensive financial review. “The Board has taken a very close look at this license renewal,” Smyler said, thanking the staff for their detailed analysis. “While our thorough review may have been unsettling to employees, suppliers, and patrons, we are confident that Presque Isle Downs, with the backing of Churchill Downs, will remain open and continue to serve the community.”

Since opening in February 2007, Presque Isle Downs and Casino has generated $2.52 billion in gross revenue from slots, table games, sports wagering, and iGaming, contributing $1.52 billion in taxes, assessments, and fees to the Commonwealth. The property currently operates 1,525 slot machines, 31 table games, and employs 482 people.