Will Springfield vote 'yes' on casino?

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Springfield's casino consultant is getting down to the details of exactly what impacts such a massive project would have on the city.

Shefsky and Froelich is beginning to interview other consulting firms and urban planners who will be able to give them statistics about crime, real estate taxes, and exactly how each of the plans would affect traffic. But the state gaming commission has the final say-- and before that, it's Springfield voters who need to decide if they want a casino.

The bulk of casino competition in Massachusetts is happening right here in Springfield. MGM, Ameristar and Penn National continue to advance the competitive selection process that will determine who could break ground in the city... and where.

“Bringing millions of dollars into the city of Springfield. It's a different time. And I'm quite confident that if done correctly the city can have a lot of benefits and the region can have a lot of benefits,” said city council president Jimmy Ferrera.

“I hope it would come through. It would bring a lot of jobs, excitement, rather than the bad things that happen around here. I think we need it,” said Jessica Avery.

A casino in Springfield was voted down in the past. Some people believe those same voters will say no again.

“It's going to be the same result. Same people living here. Springfield is one of the smaller major cities in MA. Essentially it's just going to be the same result. People are going to say they don't want it here,” said Keith Blake of Springfield.

The public will have a chance to hear from all three developers present their in one place at the same time next month. We'll tell where and when once it's scheduled.