From the outset, Hard Rock International intended to make a significant splash in the Bristol community.
“Instead of opening the permanent casino in stages beginning in July, the partnership team prefers to have a grand opening with a fully operational casino and amenities for an overall better guest experience,”
the casino’s news release stated. This decision underscores a strategic move to prioritize quality and cohesiveness over a phased rollout.
Hard Rock Claims Due Diligence
Allie Evangelista, President of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, emphasized the importance of making a strong first impression.
“The response to our temporary casino has been overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating the excitement for Hard Rock’s permanent presence in Bristol,” she said. “While we are eager to unveil the new resort, this extension allows us time to ensure the finished product exceeds the expectations of our guests and the community.”
The temporary Bristol Casino: Future Home of Hard Rock, which opened on July 8, 2022, has already set the stage for the anticipated permanent facility. Situated in the former Bristol Mall, this 30,000-square-foot casino offers about 900 slots, 29 table games, a sportsbook, a restaurant, a sports bar and lounge, and a grab-and-go food outlet.
This initial phase has provided a taste of what’s to come, but the permanent resort promises to be a significant upgrade. The new facility will feature a 303-room hotel, more than 1,500 slots, 75 table games, new dining venues, and a 2,000-seat indoor entertainment venue.
Obstacles and Future Plans
Recent legislation has played a crucial role in this timeline adjustment. A 2024-2026 state budget amendment grants casino operators an additional six months to complete their projects if they have a temporary casino that will be part of the permanent one and if they have met the required financial commitments. This extension gives the Hard Rock team the flexibility needed to perfect their offerings without rushing the process.
Currently, more than 600 workers are on-site daily, diligently working to bring the vision of the permanent casino to life. Despite this workforce, Hard Rock Bristol is still hiring for various positions, reflecting the scale of the project and the employment opportunities it brings to the region. The resort’s full employment goal is 1,400 employees, a significant boost for the local economy.
By choosing to unveil the entire resort simultaneously, Hard Rock aims to avoid the inconveniences and disruptions that often accompany phased openings. Evangelista highlighted that opening the resort in its entirety allows for a grander, more seamless introduction to the community. This approach ensures that guests won’t encounter construction-related interruptions, thus preserving the integrity of their experience.
The decision to delay the opening of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol to later in the year is a strategic move aimed at ensuring a fully integrated guest experience. By opting for a single grand opening instead of a phased approach, Hard Rock Bet Massachusetts aims to avoid potential disruptions and provide a seamless introduction of all its amenities at once. The Bristol community, which has shown considerable enthusiasm for the temporary casino, will have to wait a bit longer for the full experience.
