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Encore Boston Harbor (EBH) currently holds the title of being the largest among the three retail casinos in Massachusetts, and it has ambitious plans to further expand its size.
The parent company of EBH, Wynn, recently had its proposal for a multi-use development area near the casino discussed in a special public hearing held by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) in Everett. Attendees were invited to provide their comments on the matter.
Wynn and EBH are aiming to expand their operations by acquiring an extra Category 1 gaming license along with making multiple additions to the nearby vicinity. Wynn has projected that construction might commence in 2025, leading to the opening of the new facility approximately by 2025.
Plans for expansion
The expansion plans involve the addition of several exciting amenities, such as a poker room, sports betting parlor, nightclub, theater, and parking garage. To ensure seamless connectivity, a pedestrian bridge will link the existing Encore Boston Harbor with the new property.
The proposed development is situated on the east side of Broadway in Everett, directly across the street from EBH.
In terms of transportation, the new site would include complimentary shuttles and a program called Blue Bike.
Nevertheless, not all opinions expressed during the hearing were in favor of the proposed EBH expansion. A labor representative subtly suggested that his group may be inclined to support the Wynn project in the future, but is not currently prepared to do so.
UNITE HERE Local 26, a union representing hospitality workers in the Boston area, voiced their desire for the commitment to hiring a diverse workforce to persist as Encore Boston Harbor continues to expand, according to Jamie McNeil, a representative from the union.
More than ten years ago, McNeil brought to the commission’s attention that they had previously backed ECB’s application for a gaming license and had also submitted a development plan.
However, McNeil clarified that there have been changes.
He stated that although we anticipate assisting this application, we currently do not have a labor harmony commitment regarding all aspects of its operations. Therefore, we are unable to furnish the MGC or the application with a letter of support at this time.
Wynn promises economic prosperity
The state law requires that any proposed plans for a gaming project in Massachusetts casinos must specify if the applicant has developed a plan for ensuring “labor harmony” in their proposal.
Once the project in Everett is finished, Wynn assured the creation of 2,000 construction jobs and 800 permanent jobs. Additionally, there was a commitment to contribute $5 million towards affordable housing in Everett.
Wynn’s strategy entails aiming for a 50% female representation among new hires, with a parallel emphasis on recruiting individuals from minority groups and veterans to join their workforce.
Furthermore, a spokesperson from Wynn emphasized that the company is dedicated to achieving a zero net energy building throughout its operations.
Mixed reactions from citizens
Numerous individuals from Local 26 voiced their worry about the expansion, yet they also expressed hope that EBH and Wynn could bring increased economic prosperity to Everett. On the other hand, some residents of Everett stated their preference for the proposal to be determined through a referendum.
There is disagreement about whether the approval of the EBH casino by Everett voters in 2013 permits the city to proceed with additional gaming-related construction in the same area.
Many employees from Encore Boston Harbor showed their support for the expanded project located opposite Broadway.
Anika Pieres, an assistant director for EBH, expressed her support for the new project, stating, “I am in favor of it if it provides similar opportunities to mine.”
The next meeting of the MGC is scheduled for May, during which they will engage in further discussions regarding the proposal.
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