Illinois casinos set annual revenue record

Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2001 | 4:23 a.m.

Revenues were 21.6 percent higher than the previous year despite a chilly and snowy December that sent revenues plunging to their lowest level for one month since dockside gambling was permitted in June 1999. For nearly a decade, the riverboats had to cruise before gambling could start.

The previous record for Illinois casinos revenues was $1.36 billion, set in 1999, Illinois Gaming Board spokesman Gene O'Shea said.

Suburban Chicago casinos led the way again last year. Elgin's Grand Victoria had nearly $386 million in revenues and a state-leading 3.6 million admissions. In Joliet, Harrah had revenues of $280.8 million and Empress had $235.4 million. Aurora Hollywood's revenues were $217.4 million.

Other casinos' revenues were: $156 million at East St. Louis, $129.5 million at East Peoria, $112.2 million at Alton, $108.3 million at Metropolis and $31 million at Rock Island.

Admissions totaled 19 million, down 20 percent from 1999 due to changes in counting procedures. The average person wagered $87.

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