LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Like thousands of people, Billy Bell works in downtown Louisville. Originally from Indianapolis, the father of three moved to Kentucky two years ago. 

Bell works as a manager and bartender at Locos Restaurant at Fourth Street Live! 

“I love it; it’s new people every day ... it’s just meeting people all over the place," Bell said. 

When it opened in early December, many people came downtown to check out the brand new Derby City Gaming Downtown. Bell hasn’t been to the historical gaming center yet but said he feels like it has brought new life to downtown, as the restaurant where he works is already seeing roughly a 20% business boost during the day. 

“It’s great because we’re in the middle of our dead season, so it’s helped a lot," Bell said. "Usually, we make nothing, and it costs us money to come down here. It’s been nice to make at least make something each week, so it’s definitely a boost to my pocket.” 

Around the corner, at Chipotle, general manager Darryl Jackson said he hasn’t been to the new gaming center either. But in his eyes, he is seeing more excitement around downtown, even though it hasn't yet translated to an increase in restaurant foot traffic. 

“It’s coming; oh, yeah, it’s coming," Jackson said. "Once it starts to warm up and people are excited about being outside? It’s definitely coming.”

When that happens, he said he’s very optimistic about a sizeable revenue boost.

“I’m hopeful to get my sales up a couple grand more a day and keep my line and my restaurant full.” Jackson said.

Both Bell and Jackson said they plan on visiting the brand new gaming center. Jackson said he thinks the business effects of the center being open should be "crazy."