Sands Bethlehem collects slot revenues of $19.7 million in February

The Sands Bethlehem, which is operated by Las Vegas Sands Corp., had Pennsylvania’s third-highest take in slot machine revenue during February, according to figures released by state gaming regulators.

On Monday, Las Vegas Sands said it was planning to restart construction of a 300-room hotel tower at the casino, located at the site of historic Bethlehem Steel Mill.

Sands Bethlehem reported almost $19.7 million in slot machine revenue during the month. The casino opened last Memorial Day.

The Hollywood Casino, operated by Penn National Gaming, reported $19.5 million in slot revenues, down less than 1 percent.

The Philadelphia Park Racetrack had the highest amount of slot machine revenues in month, $32 million, which was up 5 percent compared to a year ago. Harrah's Chester Casino and Racetrack reported $24.7 million in slot machine revenues, a decline of 11.5 percent.

Pennsylvania’s seven casinos as a whole collected $168.3 million in gross gaming revenue, compared to $145.6 million in February 2009 when seven casinos were in operation. The figure was a 15.6 percent increase.