Millions of dollars went from the slots at Western Fair into the City of London's bank account last year.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation gave $4.5-million in slot machine revenue to the city in 2016. Some of that money was used to pay for the $1-million restoration of the Windermere Bridge.
“OLG’s contribution provided the funding to extend the life of the Windermere Bridge by another 20 to 25 years, and improve mobility and quality of life for all area residents,” city engineer Kelly Scherr says in a news release issued by the city.
According to the city, other projects funded by the slot machine revenue last year include the Emerald Ash Borer tree removal and replacement program, upgrades to multi-use park pathways, local and rural road rehabilitation, enhancements to neighbourhood parks, and the city's bus life cycle replacement program.
“OLG is proud to be a vital part of London for more than 18 years and we look forward to continuing to build on that support," says Jake Pastore, OLG’s director of municipal and community relations.