VINTON, La. — For casino lovers, the wait is finally over in Louisiana.
Delta Downs in Vinton, Louisiana, is just a few miles from the Texas border. It's now back open. The facility includes a racetrack, casino and hotel.
Although it's back open, things do look different.
Vice President and General Manager Steve Kuypers said they've implemented a new safety protocol.
"Everything is moved up, sort of on high speed intensity. To make sure when someone comes here, they really feel safe," Kuypers said.
It begins as soon as you walk in the front door. Every visitor is spaced six feet apart, and temperatures are checked as people come in.
"When we got the word that we were going to be in phase one, we could start opening up the excitement started to build," Kuypers said.
Maria Rivera is one visitor who says she appreciates it.
"They're thinking about us and our safety, so I'm all for that," Rivera said. "I think I downloaded so many casino apps on my phone already, just to play and have fun at home."
All staff are required to wear face masks and cleaning is continuous, with hand sanitizer stations located all throughout.
"It's every other machine that will be turned off, the seats have been removed," Kyupers said.
Only half of the slots are able to operate, which is a little more than 800
Some say they don't agree with the decision, like Ervin Pennington.
"I don't like that. I don't wear a mask, I'm not scared. I'm 74 years old, if I die I'm just dead," Pennington said.
It's not keeping people away, and Wednesday saw about 1,700 patrons come through the doors.
Simulcast racing will start on June 10, but no fans will be able to watch in person.
Even with the new guidelines, it's a safe bet that everyone is happy to return.
The hotel will reopen on Friday, May 22.