|
|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
|
State
Rep. Dwight Evans |
  
|
Evans lauds gaming board for unanimous Pittsburgh decision
HARRISBURG, Aug. 15 – State Rep. Dwight Evans, chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, said today the Gaming Control Board’s unanimous decision to allow Chicago billionaire Neil Bluhm to take over the Pittsburgh casino project was critical for the future of the Southwest region and for the state.
"This was the right decision for Pittsburgh and for Pennsylvania," said Evans, D-Phila., a staunch advocate of the casino project originally started by Don Barden, the only minority casino owner awarded a license thus far. "The board’s decision means Mr. Barden remains a key player in this new industry in Pennsylvania; it puts contractors back to work; and it insures the community will receive millions of dollars to invest for the neighborhoods. Most importantly, it means the state soon will be drawing on those casino dollars so we can continue to provide property tax relief across the state."
Barden and Bluhm told the gaming board that contractors, who have not been paid since May, could be back to work as early as Monday now that the license has been transferred to Mr. Bluhm. In addition, Mr. Bluhm will honor commitments to the North Side and Hill District communities and to the development of the new Penguins Arena now under construction. The casino is expected to open next August; the arena the following year.
Evans stepped forward in support of Mr. Barden in May even though he was having difficulty financing the project because of nervous financial markets. He remained supportive of Bluhm’s investment because it promised to allow the project to move forward.
"The casino is already under construction and to delay the project any further isn’t prudent. It could take years to restart the process," Evans said. "Anyone who doubts the impact of a casino needs only drive to Washington County where the Meadows Racetrack and Casino has sparked major development.
"I stood on the hill at the site of the new Tanger Outlets and just marveled at the development," Evans said. "Homes, restaurant, shopping. It’s all there. And it’s there because of the casino. It’s exciting to see that level of economic impact."
-30-
###bf/2008/cz
l:'print'releases'pghcasino.203
|
CONTACT: Johnna A. Pro Phone: 717-783-8024 Cell: 717-418-3749 Email: japro@pahouse.net
Barbara Fellencer Phone: 717-772-8033 Email: bfellenc@pahouse.net
For more information about Rep. Dwight Evans’ legislative initiatives, visit the website www.pahouse.net/evans. For more information about the House Appropriations Committee, visit the website www.hacd.net |