Fairfield unenthusiastic over MGM Bridgeport
Local officials are not sure whether gambling on a casino next in Bridgeport is a good idea for Fairlfield or not.
US.- After MGM Resorts International revealed its plans to build a US$675 million integrated resort near the Steelpointe Harbor development, groups showed their discontent with the Governor’s decision to allow said facility. Now, Fairfield officials are reportedly joining that side as they’re not sure if a casino neat the city is a good idea.
State Senator Tony Hwang, R-28, said: “I’ve opposed the casino expansion in East Windsor, and anywhere in this state.” He believes that any expansion could be a downgrade as he pointed out that local Indian tribes that manage the Mohegan Sun and Foxwood Resorts casinos would lose revenue. “There is so much uncertainty, and it seems we’re betting the future of our state’s well-being on gambling success,” Hwang said. “That is troubling, and, for me, the wrong path to go down,” he added, as local media reported.
MGM Resorts International is set to collaborate with RCI Group in order to bring the project to life, which would require the approval of the state legislature before it can proceed. The proposal is likely to reignite the discussion of wether the gaming industry in Connecticut can be shared and how much pressure it would present to the two tribal casinos in the state, Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods.
The deal establishes that a US$600 million casino will be built in Bridgeport, the largest city in the state and it will feature 2000 slot machines, 160 table games, a 300 room hotel and a 700 theater as well as restaurants. Moreover, the project is set to create 7k additional jobs in the city.
State Rep. Brenda Kupchick, R-132, said: “Frankly I’ve never been a proponent of casinos in Bridgeport.Studies show that they basically depress anything around them,” Kupchick said. “Some people might feel excited, but the legislature would have to approve it, and the state would lose hundreds of millions of dollars, which it can’t afford to do.”
