Fraser Downs to become Elements Casino in $Multi-Million Expansion

For years, Cloverdale patrons have watched Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino in Surrey, BC grow from a pari-mutuel horse racing facility into a renowned, multifariously accommodating gambling establishment. Later this year, owners will accomplish the most intrepid renovations of all, converting Fraser Downs into the newer, bigger and bolder Elements Casino.

The new casino project is the brain child of the racetrack’s owner, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation (GCGC), which is responsible for several other major casino properties like BC’s River Rock Casino Resort and the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver. In a press release last month, GCGC proudly announced the upcoming grand opening of Elements Casino, slated for some time this winter.

The press release indicated that the Elements Casino development is projected to become the region’s top “all-inclusive, full service gaming entertainment venue”, providing unmatched customer service, live entertainment and culinary delights, while offering patrons an elite casino gambling and Standardbred racing experience.

Michael Kim is the Director of Operations for Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino. “This type of multi-million dollar property transformation allows us the opportunity to ensure our guests experience something uniquely special,” said Kim in a statement. “With our mix of gaming options, entertainment and culinary experiences, I am confident Elements Casino will be the primary entertainment choice for many.”

Elements Casino will hold its grand opening later this year, featuring an array of gambling amusements that will include 550+ slot machines, a poker room and table games like blackjack, baccarat and roulette. Live entertainment venues will include an eclectic mix of local and regional performance artists, while the dining options are being updated to feature contemporary menus.

The racing side of the business will not undergo any significant changes. The 2015 Standardbred racing season will commence on October 1, as usual, and will run for 6 months out of the year, while simulcasting will continue year round.

Vice President of Stakeholder Relations and Responsible Gaming at GCGC, Chuck Keeling commented on the impending launch of the rebranded gambling establishment. “We look forward to the grand opening of Elements Casino as it will give us an opportunity to elevate, improve and diversify the entertainment experience within the Surrey marketplace, a region that is currently growing and projected to be the most populated city in Metro Vancouver by 2020.”

About Elements Casino and Owner GCGC

Based in Canada, GCGC currently owns and operates 16 gambling facilities across the provinces of British Columbia, Ontario and Nova Scotia, as well as the US State of Washington. Its properties range in size and services from community gaming centres and racinos to 4-Diamond resort hotels.

GCGC acquired Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino in 2005, expanding its features multiple times over the last decade. In 2007, table games were added to the gambling menu, followed by a live poker room in 2012.

The company takes pride in its social responsibility and is committed to helping the community grow through contributions and employee volunteer efforts. In pursuit of those ideals, GCGC established the PROUD program, investing over $2 million into the community annually. In addition, a vast majority of the gross gaming revenue from BC gambling operations like Elements Casino is distributed back into the community via provincial government taxation to benefit education, healthcare and other important programs.