New casino could be set in Springfield

A project to expand the Springfield casino market is moving towards approval this year.

US.- As the Illinois House of Representatives subcommittee is today starting a new debate on gaming expansion, the local city of Springfield has also introduced a proposal to allow new gaming venues. MGM Resorts International is investing in its big casino in Illinois and the state’s authorities have shown interest in allowing further gaming expansion.

Illinois is moving forward with a project that would allow six new casinos in the State, although Springfield has not been included in the proposal as a potential host. However, local authorities began a debate last week that could lead to gaming expansion in the city with the installation of a new casino in the downtown area.

Experts estimate that a casino in the area would bring US$15 million annually and create more than 2,000 jobs after construction. The resort would also feature two hotels, a convention centre and a water park. The group of legislators behind the movement believe that a resort in the county would boost the economy.

Meanwhile, Senator Dave Syverson, R-Rockford, commented on the State’s debate: “The fact they waited until a couple of days before adjournment to have a subcommittee hearing shows there wasn’t an interest to actually move a bill, and that’s unfortunate.”

“Communities are struggling. They need this revenue. The state needs the revenue.”