Charles Town track considers expanding entertainment opportunities

Wednesday, May 31, 2000 | 9:37 a.m.

The new marketing director at Charles Town Races says booking major musical acts could help keep gamblers at the Jefferson Track longer. Also, packaging the track with nearby tourist attractions is another way to increase attendance, said Brian Harris.

Harris directed slot machine operations at Bally's Park Place casino in Atlantic City, N.J., before coming to Charles Town.

His goal is to provide amenities that make the track more appealing for extended stays.

Charles Town is licensed to operate 1,500 slot machines. Since 1998, the track has generated $57.3 million in video lottery and slot machine revenue.

The Eastern Panhandle track, located within an hour's drive of Baltimore and Washington, D.C., is owned by Penn National, which owns Penn National Race Course and Pocono Downs Racetrack, as well as 10 off-track wagering facilities in Pennsylvania.

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