Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo signed a new legislation that approves the addition of a hotel at Twin River Casino, Lincoln, currently being the only full-fledged gambling venue on the territory of the state.
Previously, state law prevented a hotel from opening doors near the casino site, as Providence hotel owners expressed concerns that they might not be able to blunt the competition coming from the new facility.
Certain officials, however, stated that the restriction should be lifted, as the launch of new casinos in Massachusetts would definitely have a negative impact on Rhode Island’s gambling industry, if no due measures are taken. As previously reported, a slots parlor is to open doors in Plainville, Massachusetts in less than two months.
Gov. Raimondo said in a Thursday statement that neighboring states aim at drawing “revenue and economic development away from Rhode Island.” This is why officials should look for ways that would make it possible for the state to remain competitive and for more opportunities to be created for its residents.
Patti Doyle, spokeswoman for Twin River Casino, said that they all are grateful for the support they have received. Casino owners will now have to work closely with city officials for the development of a proper site plan for the hotel.
Twin River Management Group, which owns and operates the Lincoln-based casino, said that the four-story hotel would be Hampton Inn- or Courtyard Marriott-styled and would feature between 150 and 250 rooms. Owners would have to spend up to $35 million for the construction of the facility.
According to latest information, the project would create about 200 construction and 100 permanent jobs.
Twin River executives explained that their hotel would be intended for keeping “convenience” players from the surrounding area, people who might feel tempted to go to Massachusetts, once its venues open doors.
Furthermore, owners pointed out that they are not planning to seek tax exemption for the multimillion project.
Yesterday, Gov. Raimondo signed a House Bill and a Senate Bill into law. The first was sponsored by Rep. Jeremiah T. O’Grady (D-Lincoln), and the latter was introduced and supported by Majority Whip Maryellen Goodwin (D-Providence). The two bills were more or less the same except for their sponsorship.
