Bardavon, Bethel Woods deal with casino brings cash and competitive edge John W. Barry, Poughkeepsie Journal · September 19, 2018 at 6:40 am In the months and years leading up to its opening in February, Resorts World Catskills in Sullivan County was heralded by some and feared by others. The $1 billion casino would bring jobs to the region and draw tourists, developers said. While the economic potential was lauded, concert venues locally and around the state feared a big new competitor could squeeze them out of premium acts. The solution was to cut a deal between the venues and the casinos. But, with a $58 million loss over the first six months, Resorts World Catskills has been struggling.