{Lexington, Kentucky}...According to a study released Monday by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, allowing casinos at Kentucky's eight racetracks would have an estimated $1.7 billion economic impact during the casinos' first full year of operation, including $464.7 million in gaming tax revenue. A Kentucky Gaming Market Analysis and Impacts Report shows the casinos would create nearly 11,000 full-time jobs with a payroll of $289.3 million. Eight casinos would generate $266 million in one-time license fees, as well as $164.6 million for horse-racing industry programs. The study, commissioned by groups with interests in the state's horse industry, was conducted by the New Jersey-based Spectrum Gaming Group, an independent research firm that specializes in the gaming industry.
