Penn National is moving forward with construction

Mayor Domenic Sarno selected MGM over Penn National

By Ryan Walsh, 22News Investigative ReporterPublished: June 26, 2014

 

 

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Penn National Gaming received the state’s first gaming license for a slots parlor in Plainville and they’re moving forward in spite of the court’s recent decision.

 

Cement pouring, steel beams set in place and men at work. Penn National Gaming isn’t waiting on the casino repeal vote to start building its slots parlor.

 

Penn National hopes to be the first gaming company to open in Massachusetts. They believe they can do that sometime next spring.

 

Eric Schippers, Penn National’s Vice President of Public Affairs, said, “We have found the more citizens learn about what it is we’re protecting in terms of the jobs and the revenues. The more the polls continue to climb and show support for this.”

 

In February, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission awarded Penn National the state’s first gaming license. It will be called Plainridge Park Casino. 1,250 slot machines will line the gaming floor. In addition to the gambling, the decision to award the license to Penn National in Plainville saved the harness track.

 

According to Brenda Provost, a horse trainer, “Keeping our eye on the prize keeping the optimism sticking with what we know and what we love and working hard everyday and kind of just trusting that its going to work out for the best that’s all you can do.“

 

The track is operating this year, but if a vote repeals the casino law, the track will likely be closed next year.

 

Schippers told 22News they plan to campaign with MGM leading up to the vote. Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno selected MGM over Penn National for the city’s casino partner.

 

 

 

 

http://wwlp.com/2014/06/26/penn-national-is-moving-forward-with-construction/