(Michigan City, IN) - A year from now, there will be a casino along Interstate 94 in Gary.

Some people wonder about the impact on existing casinos like Blue Chip in

Michigan City.

Jack Arnett, executive director of the LaPorte County Convention & Visitors Bureau, says there might be a drop in business, initally, but things will recover just like they did when

casinos opened outside New Buffalo and in South Bend.

Arnett said people losing or winning money at the casino along Interstate 94 might decide to try their luck here.

New casinos also grow the size of the market by making the whole area more attractive as

a destination for gamers, he said.  

Arnett said Blue Chip by expanding its convention center also draws considerable business not related to gaming.

The Hard Rock Café casino is scheduled to open during the first quarter of

2021.