Big E to make casino announcement Friday

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A “red carpet” luncheon is planned at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield on Friday, as officials from the fairgrounds are set to announce their decision on developing a casino on the property.

The Big E announced the much-anticipated event on Wednesday evening. “We hope you are able to join us for this important announcement and other surprises,” a Big E media alert reads.

Multiple sources have informed the 22News I-Team that the Big E plans to partner with Hard Rock International , which previously had considered casino sites in neighboring Holyoke and Springfield.

The proposal will include retail space, a large concert venue and other amenities.  A ramp to be built off of Route 5 will also be included in the project, according to a source.

The Mass Gaming Commission told 22News that Hard Rock has not paid it's $400,000 application fee yet. The deadline for all Massachusetts casino applications is January 15.

The event, which requires reservations, is being held at the Storrowton Carriage House from 11:30 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.