The 10 tribal casinos will operate at a reduced capacity with enhanced safety protocols
T
he Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa will reopen its doors next week after over 12 weeks of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as the Cherokee Nation continues a phased reopening of its 10 gaming locations in Oklahoma, the tribe announced Thursday.
Given a successful implementation of Cherokee Nation Businesses (CNB)’s Responsible Hospitality plan and approval from the Cherokee Nation Gaming Commission, Will Rogers Downs and casinos in Grove and Roland will resume operations next Wednesday, June 10, with Hard Rock and all other Cherokee casinos reopening by the end of next week, officials said.
A phased reopening of Cherokee facilities began this week with locations in Tahlequah and Fort Gibson opening Monday followed by a Sallisaw casino on Tuesday, as reported by Tulsa World.
“This is the worst public health crisis we’ve faced in generations, and it has presented challenges to Cherokee Nation and Cherokee Nation Businesses like none before,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. “We have made great progress in our fight to slow the spread of COVID-19, but the work is far from done. As we begin to welcome back our guests, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to protect one another.”
All casinos will operate at a reduced capacity with enhanced health and safety protocols, including efforts to keep guests physically separated along with extra cleaning and sanitization. All employees and guests will have their temperatures taken before entering a casino and everyone must wear masks, officials said.
Chuck Garrett, CEO of Cherokee Nation Businesses, said: “While the guest experience may be different than before, our guests will continue to receive the first-class hospitality they have come to know and love.” He added that casino floors at all locations will be closed from 2 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily to accommodate deep cleaning and sanitization.