JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – All bets are on at Best Bet Jacksonville as the state's largest poker room opened its doors for the first time Thursday.
People lined up outside the building at Regency that was once a Garden Ridge.
"I just had to come out and see the facility," Anthony Carswell said. "Gorgeous. Just Gorgeous."
It didn't take long for the new facility to fill up with gamblers.
Staff members believe the odds are in the community's favor, with such a big staff and big facility. They believe the poker room will be a big boost the Regency community needs.
Deborah Giardina, executive director of poker operations, said customers can expect a jam-packed schedule, including the World Poker Tour, which is nationally televised.
"This is providing a place to play for the northern part of Jacksonville that has not been available without having to drive a long way," Giardina said. "I think there's been a lot of excitement, and clearly it's been a business and entertainment venue people have been waiting for."
With 70 tables, poker games including Texas Hold 'em, seven-card stud and much more are options for customers.
There's also food available, including pizza and sushi.
Then there's the argument that the poker room could bring more crime to the area. And many people are still talking about the recent shooting at Regency Square Mall.
Those who run the place say they've got not only the security and staff to calm their concerns, but also what they're calling an enormous economic impact.
"We're bringing a lot of revenue in this particular community that will spill over to the surrounding businesses, gas stations, hotels, restaurants," Giardina said.
There's another room inside where customers can watch live races and bet on them. Best Bet is open 24 hours a day Friday through Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. Monday through Thursday.