MGM Resorts is weighing its opportunity for development in Bridgeport, Connecticut as more and more people join the movement in support of its potential location built there. With the help of a coalition which backed up the new $675-million casino resort near the waterfront of Bridgeport, the project is expected to move towards construction.
For many months now people have been looking for ways in which they could facilitate the future MGM Resorts project which could completely transform the region of Bridgeport. The potential to attract more tourists and players to the area is one of the arguments expressed by the supporters of the idea, as it could provide a steady economic growth to the city. Back in September 2017 it became known that the major casino operator considers building the casino and entertainment complex near the waterfront at Steelpoint Harbor off Stratford Avenue.
At that time the company’s Chief Executive Officer James Murren urged local businesses to back the company seeking important legislation. The gambling operator was in need of the state lawmakers’ support in order to be given the green light for the new project. The new location is set to feature 160 gaming tables, 2,000 slot machines, a 300-room hotel, a 700-seat theater, as well as a dining and retail area. However, there is also the complication which makes the whole process problematic and it has to do with the already existing arrangements in the field.
Ways for the Casino Resort Greenlighting
Getting the support of local legislative officials would violate the currently-existing slot agreements with the state of Connecticut. MGM Resorts International insisted back then that such a change would be beneficial for the state, as it would bring larger revenue to it. There are existing agreements under which the Indian tribes that operate the Foxwoods Resort Casino and the Mohegan Sun Casino are given the exclusive right to operate slot machines in the state of Connecticut.
The needed bill which has the potential to give the opportunity for development to non-tribal companies passed the House by a 77-73 support. However, the Senate could not provide it with a vote.The Connecticut General Assembly remains adjourned until the end of this year, so the new project will not be able to receive the authorization needed at least until the end of 2018. Next year there is a real chance for it to happen which is why the supporters of the idea are working hard in order to push their idea.
They are stating their position loud and clear so that the authorities can hear them and take their perspective into account. The very fact that the House has given its approval to the bill gives them hope to continue the battle, as they know there is support of the idea. The developer of the potential casino location Bridgeport Landing Development saw a congregation this week led by Mayor Joseph Ganim and city legislators.
With it, they aimed to let people know that the efforts will continue until 2019 General Assembly decides to vote in favor of the proposal. The officials claim that discussion of the topic should be public and open.
