Oaklawn Park plans to reopen its casino on May 18, pursuant to an Arkansas Department of Health directive.

"We are glad the Governor has provided us a target date for reopening the casino," said general manager Wayne Smith. "We are fully prepared to meet or exceed all recommended health and hygiene protocols. While we understand this timing might not be right for some people, just know we will be ready and safe for you when you are. The health and safety of our guests and team members are of the utmost importance. Of particular interest, on May 2 we concluded a successful race meet, albeit without fans, where we proved that by following strict protocols we could keep our horsemen and staff safe."

In accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Arkansas Department of Health, Oaklawn has submitted a plan to operate the casino and food and beverage outlets highlighted by the following:

Adjusted casino hours will be 9 a.m. to 3 a.m., Sunday-Thursday and 9 a.m. to 5 a.m., Friday-Saturday.

• The casino will operate at 33% of facility capacity.
• There will only be one entrance for guests, which will be the main/front casino entrance.
• Guests will be asked to show ID upon entering should contact tracing be required and be required to wear masks at all time.
• Team members will wear masks at all times.
• Guests will be limited to every other slot machine to ensure social distancing.
• Live blackjack games limited to every other seat and no more than three players per table.
• Live craps limited to three players per side of each table.
• Live roulette will not be opened at this time.
• Smoking will not be allowed anywhere inside the facility, including the casino.

The Race & Sports Book (room and kiosks) will remain closed for the time being. There will not be any simulcast racing, marketing promotions, events, tournaments, or entertainment (live bands) until further notice.

Regarding dining, the Track Kitchen, Silks, and Bistro 2705 will be open with the following guidelines:

• The Track Kitchen will be open 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. seven days a week, serving breakfast and lunch.
• Silks will be open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday-Saturday
• Bistro 2705 will be open 9 a.m. to 3 a.m. Sunday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 a.m. Friday-Saturday
• Guests and team members will be required to wear masks.
• Social distancing, with extra spacing between tables and seating limitations of 10 or less per party, will be enforced.
• Menus will be disposable for one-time usage.

https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/241193/oaklawn-park-to-reopen-casino-may-18