Barona Resort & Casino began reopening to the public in phases on May 27.
According to a press release, the resort and casino have been closed since mid-March as a temporary safety measure in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the release, Barona Band of Mission Indians Chairman Edwin “Thorpe” Romero said:
“Our first concern is always the health and wellness of Barona’s tribal elders and tribal community along with all of our staff, our players and surrounding community. We consider ourselves one big family and our goal is to ensure the wellbeing of our friends and family as we slowly begin to welcome players back to Barona. We want them to have fun but most importantly we want them to feel safe and protected.”
According to information provided by Barona, some anticipated measures include: screening players and staff for temperatures above 100 degrees in their car using infrared thermometers upon arrival; required facecoverings for all players and staff; modifications to gaming sections such as separating slot machines and placing limited numbers of seats at gaming tables, and other measures intended to limit contact.
There will be no smoking anywhere in the casino.
Barona media representative Audrey Doherty said no one from Barona was available for comment.
—Jessica Brodkin Webb