Delaware North back in Aqueduct game

BUFFALO, N.Y. - New York lawmakers are accepting proposals for a gaming operator to develop video slot machines at Aqueduct race track.

Delaware North Companies Gaming and Entertainment pulled out of the deal last month. The Buffalo-based company says the credit crunch and national recession make it impossible to raise the bid-winning $370 million by the deadline set by the state.

The state was counting on about $250 million in annual revenue from the more than 1,000 video slot machines planned for Aqueduct.

Delaware North President William Bissett says the company will participate in the new bidding process.

The winning bidder will have to pay the full amount of its proposed upfront franchise fee no later than 10 business days after the deal is closed.