Gulfstream Casino Officially Reopens After Fish Tank Flood
HALLANDALE BEACH (CBSMiami) – Gulfstream Park reopened its doors Friday nearly two weeks after a 13-thousand gallon aquarium on the second floor sprang a leak.
Ten thousand gallons of saltwater gushed out of the tank over Labor Day weekend when a seal cracked open. More than a dozen exotic fish, including sharks, survived in the remaining water but the poker room and two casinos were shutdown.
The water caused extensive damage to the carpet, drywall and slot machines.
"We worked hard, 6 -7 straight days, 24-hours a day to get back to perfectly great condition and better than before," said Gulfstream Park President Tim Ritvo.
The poker room was the first to reopen followed by the second floor but Friday, the first floor is reopen making it the official grand reopening.
As for the fish tank, it remains empty.
"It looks weird without the fish and stuff in the tank and the water," said gambler Harriet Jones.
"I don't think they should have it because it's going to break again maybe," said gambler Hyman Levy.
The casino says they haven't decided if the tank will once again be filled with tropical sea life.
As for the damage caused by the water, it's either been replaced or repaired and that includes furniture, walls, games and more.
Robert Greco heard about the grand reopening and drove down from Daytona Beach.
"I hope to win some money, that's he main purpose to coming down."
Now, the casino plans to flood its patrons with cash with weeklong giveaways beginning Friday that include:
- $10,000 cash giveaway every day ($500 every 30 minutes from noon to 10 p.m.). A total of $70,000!
- Food and drink specials
- Live entertainment
- Earn bonus free play with your regular September mailers
- During the week of Sept. 24, guests may earn entries everyday on our slots for the $25,000 cash giveaway Saturday, Sept. 29 at 10 a.m.
