Delta gets slot machine license

Delta Downs in Vinton, La., received unanimous approval for a gaming license to operate slot machines from the Louisiana Gaming Control Board at a special meeting Tuesday. The track's bid for the license was opposed by officials representing area riverboats, who contested the number of machines planned for installation at Delta Downs.

Boyd Gaming, a Las Vegas firm that purchased Delta Downs for $110 million in May, hopes to install 1,700 slot machines at the track. Before the casino can open to the public, however, it will have to undergo about a month's worth of inspections by the Louisiana State Police.

Delta Downs hopes to have its slots casino operating by mid-December, about a month into the track's fall Thoroughbred meet, which begins Nov. 17. Boyd Gaming is making about $30 million in renovations to the track, which is located two hours from Houston. The company operates 11 casino properties around the country, including the Stardust in Las Vegas and the Treasure Chest Casino in Kenner, La.