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October 14, 2008 -
If there was ever something to look forward to in the
land-based casino gambling world, Mohegan Sun Casino's $734
million "Earth" expansion is a worthy candidate. Of should I
say was a worthy candidate. The world-class
Connecticut casino resort just announced that due to the
economic crunches now facing the U.S. economy, it was
putting the "Earth" expansion on hold.
Just how long of a hold is anybody's guess. Mohegan Sun CEO, Mitchell Etess
said that in the "extremely unlikely" event that the economy dramatically
improves in the next six months, the project could get restarted in less than
a year. However, if there is no major economic improvement in the next twelve
months, the project could be put on hold even longer. The ideal situation is
that it resumes in a year's time.
In the meantime, work hasn't been put on a total hold. Etess said
that the 800 ft x 800 ft concrete foundation for the Earth casino, which has
already begun to be laid, will be fully completed. The challenge will be how
to cover and protect the foundation for an entire year, as well as provide
open the "Winter" entrance which currently overlooks the sprawling
construction site. Etess also confirmed that all roadwork currently underway,
including a long sidewalk running parallel to Route 32 will be finished.
While the news of Earth Casino's delay is a downer for all of us, nobody
will be feeling the effects more than the 100+ construction crew now working
on the foundation, not to mention the expected 2,000+ workers set to begin
construction of the 39-story hotel tower, spa, restaurant and retail shopping
corridor and House of Blues concert space. Furthermore, an estimated 1,500
people were expected to find employment at the Earth Casino when it opened for
business.
Yep, it's tough times indeed for Connecticut and the Mohegan tribe's world
famous gambling resort destination. The one positive about all of this is that
the casino's current employees have a little bit more job security now that
the costly project has been scratched for the time being.
Originally published:
October, 2008 | Categories:
Gambling
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