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Casino Salem opened in its first phase this week at The Mall at Rockingham Park in Salem, New Hampshire. Joe and Max Faro partnered with Sal Lupoli as co-owners of the facility.
Cordish Gaming Group serves as a partner in the project. Rob Norton holds the position of President at Cordish Gaming Group.
Jeff Favre works as Executive Vice President of Casino Salem. He oversees operations at the new facility.
Salem Town Manager Joe Devine attended the ribbon cutting ceremony. Actor Steve Schirripa placed the first bet on the historical horse racing machines.
The facility operates as Salem’s first charitable gaming establishment.
The casino occupies the former Lord & Taylor department store space. That location has been mostly vacant since late 2020.
Salem wanted to revitalise the empty retail space while creating economic benefits. The casino generates jobs, tax revenue and funding for charitable organisations immediately.
The Mall at Rockingham Park location provides access to existing foot traffic. Adjacent Tuscan Village already draws visitors from throughout New England.
Faro and Lupoli said the casino will “stimulate our local economy, create new jobs, and increase tourism immediately.” They expect lasting community benefits for decades.
The facility features New Hampshire’s first historical horse racing games. These machines represent the primary gaming offering in phase one.
Traditional table games and poker complement the horse racing machines. Quick service food options and a full bar serve customers.
The casino operates under charitable gaming regulations. This allows funding to flow to qualified charitable organisations.
Bridging the Horizon became one of Casino Salem’s nonprofit partners. The organisation provides activity centres for people with all abilities.
Steve Schirripa made the ceremonial first bet during opening festivities.
Casino Salem chose a phased opening approach to expedite charitable gaming additions. Favre said this generates contributions to organisations in need more quickly.
The phase one opening creates immediate economic impact while setting foundation for future expansion. Additional phases will add more gaming options and amenities.
Devine called the project “a significant investment in the future of Salem.” He expects positive economic growth and charity support.
The Southern New Hampshire Chamber of Commerce welcomed the casino as a significant local investment. Executive Director Cindi Woodbury highlighted new jobs and entertainment opportunities.
The casino builds on synergies between three economic drivers at the location. The Mall at Rockingham Park, Tuscan Village and Casino Salem create combined attractions.
Future phases will expand the facility’s offerings and capacity. The owners didn’t announce specific timelines for additional development phases.
In 2022, the Salem region was also the location for a major HHR expansion after Churchill Downs acquired Chasers Poker Room.
