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Springfield casino traffic plans presented to City Council
MGM, Penn National propose ramps off I-91
Updated: Wednesday, 13 Mar 2013, 8:59 AM EDT
Published : Tuesday, 12 Mar 2013, 9:21 PM EDT
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Standing room only at Springfield City Council chambers Tuesday.
MGM and Penn National presented their traffic plans to Springfield City Councilors and the Casino Site Committee. Both developers say if they enhance entrance and exit ramps off I-91 in downtown, traffic should be a non-issue.
But City Councilors told 22News how a casino can re-vitalize downtown with non-gaming entertainment is just as important as solving traffic issues.
“Maybe bringing back the Basketball Tip-Off Classic back to Springfield. That's the kind of stuff that makes it,” said City Councilor Bud Williams. “Just gambling? Just gaming? It wouldn't do it.”
“I think for this to succeed, it has to be looked at as an economic development project, and an entertainment project. Not just gambling,” said City Councilor Kateri Walsh.
Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno is negotiating host agreements with both MGM and Penn National, but only one developer is expected to end up on the casino referendum ballot.
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