The opening of MGM Springfield could further erode slot machines revenues that the two Connecticut casinos provide to the state budget.
The two facilities, run by the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Tribes, respectively, have been one of the major entertainment draws in the region, bringing in visitors from the New York and Boston metropolitan areas. The new venue presents the biggest threat ever seen to Connecticut’s two tribally run casinos, Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun. “We think we can grow the market and we think we can get people to come to these facilities and enjoy things like bowling and movie theaters and outdoor entertainment and if they happen to spend money on gambling that’s part of the experience but not the entire experience,” Mathis said. Michael Mathis, the President of MGM Springfield, said the hope is to lure more than just gamblers to the sprawling and sparkling new entertainment venue. MGM Springfield is a $900 million development that includes a hotel, casino floor, and numerous restaurants and entertainment options. MGM’s first resort in New England opened Friday with a parade down Main Street in Springfield.
