NY Gaming Commission Awards License to Southern Tier Casino

New York State gambling regulators have formally awarded a casino license to Tioga Downs, a racetrack and electronic gambling facility in the state's Southern Tier. The state's Gaming Commission unanimously approved the license on Tuesday. Tioga Downs began construction soon after it was recommended for a casino license last year. The facility, west of Binghamton was rejected in the first round of casino applications to the state, but prevailed on its second try. Las Vegas-style table games cannot begin until the commission approves final casino regulations, something that could happen as early as November. The expansion at Tioga Downs includes a new restaurant, hotel and other amenities. Casinos that received licenses in the first round are under construction in Schenectady, the Catskills and the Finger Lakes.