GERING, Neb. (KNEP) - The Gering Planning Commission has approved a conditional use permit for the proposed race track and casino.

The proposed race track and casino that could be built on the south side of Gering has received a new conditional use permit after Scotts Bluff Exposition and Racing needed to seek a new permit once its previous one expired.

The new permit will allow Scotts Bluff Exposition and Racing as well Elite Casino Resorts, who have partnered together, to start the building process. However, the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission still needs to grant a license to build the race track and casino. The state is currently doing a market study that will have to be complete by 2025.

If the license is granted, the proposed race track and casino will be built in stages. The 5/8 mile horse racing track, two barns with 200 stalls each and any other structure needed for horse racing would be built before any casino construction. The final stage of construction would include a truck stop.

Residents were able to voice their support or opposition for the permit with either saying they are excited to see what it can bring to the community economically or the noise, traffic and potential crime it could bring to the community.

The planning commission approved the permit with a vote of 7-1 and will be sent to city council for later action.