WHEELING, W.Va. -- It's been nearly one year since voters approved table gaming for Ohio County and back then casino officials were touting the expansion and improvements on the way.

But we have yet to see a major construction project start up at the casino. Casino president Jim Simms said there's good reason for that.

"We're taking our time and doing our diligence with it because, obviously, we want to make sure we're adding the right pieces to a great gaming facility already," said Simms.

The right pieces could include expanding the hotel and adding a spa -- projects still in the strategic planning phases right now.

"We're going to have increased competition from downtown Pittsburgh and The Meadows. So we're really looking at what is going to make Wheeling Island standout."

Simms said because of the Pennsylvania competition, Wheeling Island Casino officials are feeling the pressure, looking for ways to make up for the revenue they could lose to PA.

He said even small changes inside the casino help bring customers in from cities like Columbus.

The casino has added more cashiers on the weekends and has plans to improve the buffet service.

"We're focused on making customer conveniences top priority, adding new technology, reducing lines, increasing service," said Simms.

In the end, Simms said the casino could make up to $25 million in investments, but they're waiting to see how the market shakes up in 2009 before they make any big budget moves.