The Niagara Region could see an increase in the number of casinos in the near future following the Ontario government’s decision to terminate current exclusivity agreements. Premier Doug Ford introduced the Destination Niagara plan in December, aiming to attract more visitors to the region by introducing new casinos, a theme park, airport expansion, and other developments.
Ontario’s interim minister responsible for tourism, culture, and gaming announced an agreement between the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. (OLG) and MGE Niagara Entertainment Inc. This agreement allows for additional casino operators as MGE relinquishes its exclusivity rights while retaining operation of Fallsview Casino Resort and Casino Niagara.
OLG will initiate a procurement process later this year to identify potential new casino operators. However, there has been local opposition to Ford’s plan under Destination Niagara, including concerns raised by NDP member Wayne Gates regarding the proposal to install a second ferris wheel near the falls.
Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati expressed skepticism about Ford’s ferris wheel idea, labeling it as a non-starter. He stated that there is little support for a Ferris wheel in Queen Victoria Park, echoing the sentiments of the local community.