Key Moments:
- Happy Valley Casino plans to begin operations in April as Centre County’s first casino property
- The venue will feature 30 table games, over 700 slot machines, and a full-service dining experience
- A 12-week paid dealer school is scheduled, with applications opening in October and classes starting December and January
New Casino Set to Transform Regional Gambling Landscape
Happy Valley Casino is preparing for an April opening that will establish the property as Centre County’s first casino. Officials are targeting a workforce of approximately 300 employees at launch, with significant hiring already underway.
Job Creation and Dealer Training Initiatives
The facility is offering a 12-week paid dealer training program to local residents, targeting individuals without prior casino experience. Applications for the dealer school will become available in October, while the first training sessions are set to commence in December and January. Participants will receive wages during this period.
Extensive Gaming and Dining Options
Patrons can look forward to 30 live table games, featuring staples such as blackjack, craps, and roulette. In addition, the casino floor will house more than 700 slot machines. A full-service restaurant is also on-site, with all offerings curated to address the local market’s preferences.
| Facility Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Date | April |
| Number of Employees | Nearly 300 |
| Table Games | 30 (including blackjack, craps, roulette) |
| Slot Machines | 700+ |
| Dealer School | 12-week paid program; applications in October; classes begin December/January |
Project Milestones Despite Construction Challenges
According to Eric Pearson, CEO and General Manager of Happy Valley Casino, the project has reached a crucial milestone after a lengthy development process. Pearson highlighted that logistical challenges—such as securing generators from overseas suppliers, which involve tariffs and certifications—posed risks to the schedule. Nevertheless, contractors succeeded in keeping construction on track for the targeted April debut.
Community Response
The upcoming launch of Happy Valley Casino has generated enthusiasm among local residents. Jack Kirchner, a senior at Penn State, told WTAJ: “I love the idea of the casino coming to the area. I’m a big gambler myself, love trying to spend money to make money. I think it’s gonna bring a lot of buzz to the town.”
- Author
Daniel Williams
