Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Philadelphia Slots Casino Breaks Ground, While Others Prosper

Philadelphia Freedom was a popular song from Elton John. Nobody knew just how fee the city would become. They have now broken ground on a new slots casino that is due to be completed and ready for use in 2009.

Politicians in the city have been raving about the impact that increased gambling has had in the area. Since PhillyPark opened its temporary casino back in the last month of 2006, it has generated $350 million in revenue. That number coupled with other casinos in the state, has revenue at $1.2 billion.

"I would call that a very high end performance engine that's produced such quick and stellar results," said the Chairman of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, Judge Mary Collins.

While the judge is happy with the numbers, it is Governor Rendell who is receiving most of the praise for initiating the slots legislation. The Governor was supposed to be at the ground breaking ceremonies, but was held upon Interstate 95.

"You were right and they were wrong," said Philadelphia Park Chairman Bob Green. He was speaking about the Governor battling with his critics over the slots legislation. The idea has turned out to be a winning proposition for Pennsylvania.

Many workers have been employed temporarily to help in the construction of the casino. Once built, it will also give permanent employment to 1,000 people.

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