The casino that has been in the works for the Delaware River, the Sugarhouse Gambling establishment, opened its gates. The gaming licenses issued in 2006 were very limited. The business that owns Sugarhouse Gambling establishment received one of the five permits. While the Sugarhouse Casino is expected to bring in billions of dollars of gaming taxes, there is nevertheless debate. Many residents and anti-gambling groups continue to protest the Sugarhouse Casino, and are moving forward with plans intended to cut back casino earnings.
Discussions against the Sugarhouse Casino
Residents have expressed concern about the possibility of a casino ever since the license was granted. Groups ranging from the Philadelphia Neighborhood Alliance, the Northern Liberties Neighbors Association and Casino Free Philadelphia argued that the Sugarhouse Gambling establishment would create crime, noise, pollution and companies that offer payday advances no faxing and other forms of credit. A candlelight service was held outside the casino on opening night. Organizers have stated that the vigil was “for individuals…who are sure to gamble away their savings”.
Will Sugarhouse Casino assist the local economic climate
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. Sugarhouse Casino has already paid $ 175,000 to the Special Services District, which is getting used for arts, sports, schools and veterans’ affairs services. Over 900 individuals have been hired by the Sugarhouse Gambling establishment, including 800 full-time employees.
Will the Sugarhouse Gambling establishment carry on the exact same route
Though the Sugarhouse Casino currently has 40 gaming tables and 1,600 slot machines, that is 400 less than initially planned. Future plans for the Sugarhouse Casino include a parking garage, luxury hotel and spa. Opponents of the casino vow to start campaigns aimed at reducing the number of customers and revenue coming in to the new area business. The monetary stimulation 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
