The province is set to expand its financial support of True North Sports & Entertainment with a gaming centre linked – literally and physically – to the MTS Centre.

The new facility, currently under construction on the northwest part of the second floor of cityplace, will be owned by True North, owners of the Winnipeg Jets, and operated by Manitoba Lotteries.

"This gaming centre is a result of the province’s promise to provide gaming-revenue support to the MTS Centre," said Susan Olynik, vice-president of corporate communications and social responsibility for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries.

The 5,000-square-foot gaming centre is scheduled to have 140 slot machines, two poker tables and four black jack tables. Once the gaming centre opens, 50 video lottery terminals currently in operation at the Tavern United pub and restaurant, which is adjacent to the MTS Centre, will be removed.

geoff.kirbyson@freepress.mb.ca