Telegraph photo by ADAM URQUHART The River Casino & Sports Bar will reopen to the public this week.

NASHUA – Months have passed since patrons have been able to go inside The River Casino & Sports Bar and test their luck, but the long wait is nearly over.

On Thursday, the casino will have a grand re-opening and welcome the public back at 50 percent occupancy for the first time since coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused them to close down operations. President and General Manager at The River Jim Rafferty said he had to close down on March 16.

“People have been calling us every day saying when are we going to reopen,” Rafferty said.

Now, three months later, cards will finally be dealt once again come June 18, but with safety measures in place. Aside from reopening at 50 percent occupancy, the casino will also be limiting the number of people gambling at each table. Also, people will need to wear face masks when not consuming food.

Rafferty said customers’ temperatures will be taken at the door along with a questionnaire on their health, which he said are both required by the state.

The casino is located at 53 High St. and will be opening with exactly the same hours of operation as before, which is 3 p.m.-1 a.m. Monday through Thursday and 12 p.m.-1 a.m. Friday through Sunday.

Adam Urquhart may be contacted at 594-1206, or at aurquhart@nashuatelegraph.com.