WarHorse Casino Lincoln kicked off the week on Monday by unveiling phase two of its permanent casino floor, introducing new gaming offerings to the facility. WarHorse Casino Lincoln more than doubled its number of slot machines and debuted live dealer table games, significantly expanding its gaming floor.
Administered by WarHorse Gaming and the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (NHBPA), the Lincoln racino’s expansion saw the slot machine count surge from about 400 to 830. Gamblers now have the option to play ten table games, including blackjack, roulette, and mini-baccarat. Additionally, the casino now boasts over 100 simulcast screens for parimutuel bettors to watch live horse racing from around the globe, and it continues to offer sports betting.
Lance Morgan, CEO of WarHorse Gaming, noted that the second development phase also includes expanded restaurant seating, anticipating that table games will significantly impact the casino’s business. Lynne McNally, CEO of the NHBPA, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the appeal of table games to those who associate Las Vegas-style gambling with such options.
The NHBPA, which owns racetracks in Omaha, Lincoln, and South Sioux City, partnered with Ho-Chunk Inc. and WarHorse to develop these tracks into racinos following voter approval in 2020. Nebraskans supported the initiative to reduce property taxes, with gross gaming revenue (GGR) at racetrack casinos facing a 20% tax. Of this, 70% benefits the Nebraska Property Tax Credit Fund, 25% goes to the counties where gambling occurs, and the remaining 5% is split between the state’s Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund and the General Fund.
Morgan and McNally acknowledged that construction at WarHorse Casino Lincoln has been slower than expected due to pandemic-induced delays and inflation-related high costs, postponing the promised property tax relief for residents. With phase two now complete, the casino’s integration with the racetrack grandstand at Legacy Downs at WarHorse Casino Lincoln can proceed to the next phase. This will include a forthcoming hotel comprising 200 rooms, convention space, and additional restaurants.
WarHorse Gaming and the NHBPA celebrated their first fully operational casino in Nebraska in August with the opening of WarHorse Casino Omaha at Horsemen’s Park. This facility offers around 800 slots, 19 live dealer table games, 100 simulcast screens, and a sportsbook, though it currently has no plans for a hotel addition.
WarHorse Omaha followed Harrah’s Columbus, NE, Racing & Casino, which debuted in May as Nebraska’s first permanent casino. Grand Island Casino Resort at Fonner Park is currently operating a temporary casino, with its full resort expected to open next year.
Through September, WarHorse Lincoln generated approximately $41.3 million in GGR, with $13.6 million in winnings from players, resulting in a combined total of $54.9 million for both WarHorse casinos. Statewide, four casinos accrued $94.2 million in GGR, signifying WarHorse and the NHBPA’s command over about 58% of Nebraska’s casino market. This dominance might increase if they decide to establish a third casino in South Sioux City.
