© 2024 Connecticut Public

FCC Public Inspection Files:
WEDH · WEDN · WEDW · WEDY · WNPR
WPKT · WRLI-FM · WEDW-FM · Public Files Contact
ATSC 3.0 FAQ
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Deadline Passes for Connecticut Tribal Casino Proposals

Bill Lile
/
Creative Commons
Tribal officials expect to make a decision by December 15 on a site.

Connecticut communities interested in hosting a new tribal casino faced a closing date to submit their proposals.

The MashantucketPequot and Mohegan tribes set a deadline of 4:00 pm on Friday.

Both federally recognized tribes hope to open a jointly run casinonorth of Hartford to compete with an $800 million casino complex planned by MGM Resorts International in nearby Springfield, Massachusetts. Tribal officials contend the new casino is needed to protect jobs at their existing Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casinos in southeastern Connecticut.

And according to The Hartford Courant, a few others are jumping in the ring, and some are returning contenders. Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, the owners of the Enfield Square mall -- both trying again -- East Hartford and East Windsor are reported to be submitting proposals. 

"It appears that other communities are anxious to work with the tribes to develop a third venue," said David Cadden, professor emeritus of business at Quinnipiac University. "The proposals to build a casino adjacent to Hartford illustrates the complexities that exist between local governments and businesses, particularly casinos."

Tribal officials expect to make a decision by December 15 on a site that would serve 10,000 visitors a day. The General Assembly would must pass legislation allowing a third tribal casino.

MGM is challenging the process in court.

This report includes information from The Associated Press.

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Related Content