Las Vegas-based gambling operator MGM Resorts International presented Massachusetts gaming commissioners with the latest design for its $800-million casino resort in downtown Springfield. The developer has proposed a number of major revisions for its property, with the removal of the 25-story glass hotel tower being among those.
The design modifications came as a bit of a surprise to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and some commissioners voiced concerns that they may have a negative impact on the resort’s appeal, which, in turn, may result in less revenue being generated and less money being contributed to the state coffers.
Despite the elimination of the hotel tower, the MGM complex will still feature a 250-room hotel but it will be accommodated within a six-story building instead. The gambling operator also revealed that it plans to remove another building intended for residential apartments. MGM Resorts will still build them but they will be seen as a separate project and will not be located on the site of the resort.
Commenting on the proposed changes, Michael Mathis, President of MGM Springfield, said that the hotel tower would not impact the appeal of the whole complex as the city skyline is “littered with high-rises” but it is the MGM brand and the provision of comprehensive gambling and other options that would matter most.
Mr. Mathis also admitted that the proposed modifications were due to “skyrocketing” labor and construction costs. He also explained that the new, more innovative design would make it possible for the gambling operator to remain committed to its initial plan to create at least 2,000 construction and 3,000 permanent casino jobs.
When asked about his opinion on the removal of the glass tower, Massachusetts Gaming Commission Chairman Stephen Crosby said that it should not necessarily be considered a bad thing. The regulator also pointed out that as long as MGM Resorts includes the promised retail space and residential apartments in its resort, the commission would welcome any changes. However, he said that commissioners would need time to review the new design carefully and thoroughly.
Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno said that he was content with the modifications. According to him, the new design would attract more visitors to the central part of the city as it fits with the Main Street much better than the previously proposed plan.
The changes to the $800-million resort would need to be backed by the state gambling regulator, Springfield officials, and the Mayor himself.
