Encore Boston Harbor (EBH) is the largest of the several retail casinos in Massachusetts, and it plans to get even larger.
Earlier this week, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) planned a special public hearing in Everett to invite comments on Wynn’s proposal for a multi-use development area near the casino. Wynn is the parent company of EBH.
The plans for expansion require an additional Category 1 gaming license for Wynn and EBH, as well as some additions to the surrounding area. According to Wynn, work could begin in 2023, and the new facility could open by 2025.
Plans to achieve expansion
The expansion would include several amenities, such as a poker room, sports betting shop, nightclub, cinema, and parking garage. The current Encore Birkenstock boston Harbor will be connected to the new property via a pedestrian bridge.
The proposed development site is located on the east side of Broadway in Everett, just down the street from EBH.
In terms of transportation, the new site will feature complementary shuttles and a Blue Bike program.
However, during the public comments at the hearing, not everyone was in favor of the proposed EBH expansion. A labor representative hinted that his group would like to support the Wynn project but isn’t ready to do so yet.
“We want the commitment (to hiring diverse employees) to continue as Encore Boston Harbor expands,” said Jamie McNeil, a representative of UNITE BELOW Local 28, a Boston-area food workers association.
McNeil informed the commission that they appreciated EBH when it applied for a gaming license and submitted a development plan several years ago.
However, McNeil explained that things have changed.
“We look forward to supporting this request, but at this hour, we don’t have a labor harmony agreement on all aspects of these operations,” he said. “We cannot provide the MGC or the request with a support letter at this hour.”
Wynn assurances economic abundance
State legislation mandates that any proposed plans for the gaming project at one of the Massachusetts internet casinos must include whether the client has developed a plan for “labor harmony” in their pitch.
Wynn assured 2,000 construction jobs and 700 permanent positions in Everett once the project is complete. There was also a promise of a $5 million contribution to support funding for affordable housing in Everett.
Wynn’s plan calls for half of the new hires to be women, while also focusing on minorities and veterans in their workforce.
Additionally, a representative from Wynn emphasized that the company is committed to achieving a net-zero energy building during operations.
Put together reactions right from citizens
A couple of members of Local 28 added statements that expressed concern about the expansion but also shared optimism that EBH and Wynn could bring more economic prosperity to Everett. Other Everett residents said that they would prefer the proposal to be decided by a referendum.
In 2013, Everett voters agreed to accept the EBH casino, but there is a debate about whether it actually allows for further construction for gaming purposes in the same location.
Numerous employees of Encore Boston Harbor appeared in support of the expansion project across from Broadway.
“If this new project offers more opportunities like mine, I am in favor of it,” said Anika Pieres, an assistant director for EBH.
The MGC is scheduled to meet again in May to further discuss the proposal.
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Setelah itu Holmes is a Staff Writer for PlayMA with a wealth of experience under his belt. Dan has written several books about sports and previously worked for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Major League Baseball. He also has extensive experience covering the launch of gambling in other states, including Ohio and Maryland. Currently, Dan is residing in Michigan with his family.
