Everett Casino could come true

Elaine Driscol from the Massachusetts Commission said: “The Commission looks forward to reviewing the details of the agreement and views this development as significant progress toward the awaiting jobs and economic development for the Eastern Mass region.”

US.- Casino Mogul Steve Wynn and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh signed a deal that will allow the construction of US$1.7 billion Las Vegas-style Casino Resort next-door to Boston. Even though The Massachusetts Gaming Commission -where Everett is- still has to give their permission, the legal battle with Boston that tried to stop the project ended last Wednesday when Wynn agreed to pay around US$68 million. They already have a licence since 2014, but the legal problems stopped the construction.

“When you’re a mayor of a city and another mayor is going against your project, it’s always disappointing, and I’m glad Mayor Walsh was able to protect his interest,” Everett Mayor, Carlo DeMaria said. Now, a 24-floor, tower casino is expected to be concluded by ends of 2018. Wynn Resorts published that they are “eager to turn the page in the relationship with the City of Boston and begin a new chapter that will culminate with a beautiful, five-star resort overlooking Boston Harbor. The agreement will unlock economic development and jobs for the entire region.”

Last December, a judge dismissed Boston US$1.9 million lawsuit that stated the project would cause traffic jams in Charlestown (Boston). “Residents have been trying for years for a solution for traffic congestion in Sullivan Square and Rutherford Avenue, and we must work together to improve local transportation infrastructure. I offered to keep an open line of communication throughout this process and I thank Steve Wynn for coming back to the table to listen to Boston’s needs,” expressed Mayor Walsh.

The deal -negotiated directly by mayor and and the casino’s tycoon- determines that Wynn must pay: US$31 million over 15 years for community impact; US$25 million over 10 years for Sullivan Square infrastructure improvements; US$11 million for traffic mitigation in Charlestown; US$250,000 for a Regional Working Group on a long-term fix for Sullivan Square; good faith effort to purchase US$20 million annually over 15 years from Boston businesses; and US$1 million for reimbursement of professional expenses.