A representative of MGM Resorts International announced that the building procedures of the next casino resort on the territory of Maryland have already started.
Back in 2014, the company obtained all necessary building permits and the casino project itself was estimated to cost MGM the sum of $1.3 billion.
The venue is to be located at National Harbor and it will feature as many as 3,600 slot machines and 140 gaming tables.
According to the released information, the foundation is almost finished although the severe weather conditions made the workers fall behind schedule. Yet, the construction of the first parking level of the resort is already in progress. It will be completed by the Memorial Day, which falls on May 25th.
The Maryland-based property is expected to open doors for players in the second half of 2016 but to specific date for the grand opening has been released so far.
Lorenzo Creighton, the President and Chief Executive of MGM National Harbor, commented on the progress made towards constructing the property and said that despite the minor issues as well as the severe weather conditions, MGM executives are optimistic that everything will go in accordance with the initial plan.
Eric Coates, the safety manager of the property, said that the dedication of the construction workers is highly appreciated. Regardless of the low temperatures they are working towards the establishment of the sixth casino in Maryland.
MGM officials reassured the local communities that the casino opening would boost the economy. As many as 4,000 workers will be hired for the needs of the property. Apart from a casino, the resort will also feature a hotel, classy restaurants, retail shops and various entertainment facilities.
Mr. Creighton said that the traffic issues will be promptly solved as the traffic-management plan, developed by MGM, was almost ready. Residents and officials were worried that once the casino is open the traffic congestion will become a part of their everyday life.
Mr. Creighton said that MGM officials will encourage their guests to use public transportation whenever they can in order traffic issues to be avoided.
In point of fact, the establishment of the new casino is expected to solve the limited transportation problem local residents currently have. It is even possible Maryland authorities to consider the opportunity for a metro station in the area as the new casino will definitely attract a lot of people.
There is another parking-related problem, though. There will be a total of 5,000 parking spaces that can be used by MGM guests and visitors for free. However, the close proximity of the waterfront may cause serious troubles since some people might take advantage of the free casino parking and therefore, leave MGM guests and players without parking spaces.
