The casino that has been within the works for the Delaware River, the Sugarhouse Casino, opened its gates. There were five total gaming permits issued by the state in 2006, but the Sugarhouse Gambling establishment owners are the first ones to open a casino. While the Sugarhouse Casino is expected to bring in billions of dollars of gaming taxes, there is still conflict. Many residents and anti-gambling groups continue to protest the Sugarhouse Casino, and are moving forward with plans intended to lower gambling establishment earnings.
The Sugarhouse Casino faces powerful opposition
Ever since the state issued the license, some community groups have debated against the possibility of a casino. Some community groups claimed the gambling establishment would create a “bad neighborhood” of drunks, no fax cash advance companies, and crime. Casino Free Philadelphia organized a candlelight vigil at the opening of the Sugarhouse Casino to “voice sadness for people who organizers say are sure to gamble away their savings”.
Sugarhouse Casino promises financial development
Though there has been a strong lobby against the Sugarhouse Casino, most residents of Fishtown, where the casino is located, are happy to see the casino opened. Schools, veterans’ services, sports programs, and arts programs have all already benefitted from the money the casino has paid out. Over 900 people have been hired by the Sugarhouse Casino, including 800 full-time employees.
What’s upcoming for the Sugarhouse Casino
Though the Sugarhouse Casino currently has 40 gaming tables and 1,600 slot machines, that is 400 less than initially prepared. . This new casino is going to be the faced with many challenges. Anyone who has campaigned resistant to the Sugarhouse Gambling establishment is going to try and dissuade individuals from visiting the business. The financial stimulus provided by this huge employer who’s going to pay millions in taxes could be exactly what this depressed area needs.
Further reading
My Fox Philly
myfoxphilly.com/dpp/news/local_news/sugar-hpuse’s-pledge-to-keep-area-safe
Philly.com
philly.com/inquirer/front_page/20100921_SugarHouse_Casino_opens_this_week_in_Philly_to_hoopla_and_harrumphs.html?page=2 and c=y
