Harrah’s to start reopening Monday

    Murphy – Almost 60 days after closing their doors to help slow the spread of COVID-19, Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos will begin a gradual reopening of Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel on Monday.
    As the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and North Carolina begin to lay out a framework for easing restrictions relating to the pandemic, the casinos are looking forward to a return to operation, but with extensive health and safety precautions in place for the safety of employees and guests, according to a release.
    ”This is uncharted territory for the casino industry, but what is clear is that when we return to work it will not be exactly as it was prior to closing,” said Brooks Robinson, senior vice president and general manager.
    “We look forward to welcoming back our guests and team members, also understanding that social distancing is going to be a part of our business and lives for a while.”
    Areas such as the gaming floor, hotel and some restaurants where social distancing can be practiced will be the first to open, with significant limitations on occupancy. Areas where social distancing is not possible – such as the spa, valet, poker, buffet and concerts – will have to remain closed until it’s appropriate to reopen.
    To make social distancing possible, access to the casinos will be by invitation only at first with small groups of customers receiving the invitation by email starting as early as today. During this initial phase, only invited guests will be able to make hotel reservations or access the properties.
    The number of invitations may increase over time as it becomes appropriate to do so. Tribe members will also be able to access both casinos during this time.
    Given this phased reopening, furloughed employees will begin returning to work as their respective areas ramp up operation. Before beginning work, each employee will complete a screening, which will include a questionnaire and temperature check, and be required to wear a face mask while on duty.
    Casino employees who have spoken with the Cherokee Scout say supervisors seem genuinely concerned about their safety, with precautions expected to get even stricter. Many say they are just happy to start getting back to a semi-normal life.