Keene, NH, is planning to allow its only gaming facility to expand
Keene, New Hampshire, is moving forward with plans that could reshape its local entertainment scene. On Tuesday, the city’s zoning board approved waivers that clear the way for Revo Casino, the town’s only charitable gaming facility, to relocate from Emerald Street to a plaza on Key Road. The proposed site, owned by developer Dick Anagnost, already includes Toy City and Keene Cinemas and sits near several hotels, which Anagnost said makes it an ideal spot for expanded operations.
The relocation faced scrutiny because the new site is only 170 feet from Brookbend West, a residential property owned by Keene Housing. City regulations call for a 250-foot buffer between casinos and nearby housing, schools, daycares, or places of worship. However, the board ultimately granted the waiver after hearing that the casino’s entrance does not face the residences and that increased activity at the rear of the building was unlikely.
Josh Meehan, executive director of Keene Housing, confirmed that his organization does not object to the move. He also noted that Revo Casino already contributes to the Keene Housing Kids Collaborative, among other nonprofits, as required under New Hampshire’s charitable gaming laws. Anagnost added that the planned relocation could be completed within the next 12 to 18 months, pending further approvals.
While the casino’s current Emerald Street location no longer meets the city’s updated gaming facility regulations passed in December 2024, it remains in operation under a grandfather clause. The Key Road move would bring Revo fully into compliance with the city’s new ordinance.
Tuesday’s meeting also saw progress on unrelated local projects. The Colonial Theatre received permission to modernize its marquee with an electronic letter board, though the board stipulated that animations and flashing text are prohibited. Meanwhile, a request for more time to redevelop the former Cobblestone Ale House site was postponed until October.
Keene’s decision on the casino marks a significant step in adjusting its entertainment and charitable gaming landscape, while also balancing community concerns.
