Few Objections To New Casino In The Poconos

The Gettysburg casino project has been receiving a lot of the attention over the past couple of weeks in Pennsylvania because of the debate over whether the casino should go on the famed battleground. The Poconos, on the other hand, have a majority of residents in favor of a new casino.

Earlier this week, hundreds of people jammed into a two day hearing regarding the future of the Gettysburg casino project. Dozens of residents spoke about why the casino should not be built on the battleground of a famous war battle territory.

On Thursday, another hearing was held at Country Club of the Poconos. This hearing was dealing with the Fernwood Hotel and Resort and their desire to bring an additional casino to the Poconos. Only two of the twenty-five people who spoke were against the casino.

"We have a niche like no other tourist destination in Pennsylvania," said Arthur Berry, owner and President of Camelback Mountain Resort, as reported by the Pocono Record. "The Pocono Mountains are poised and positioned as the perfect destination for casinos. We have been delivering genuine hospitality for over 100 years."

There is one gaming license left for the state to give out. The decision on who receives the license is expected to be made by the end of the year, and residents in several different areas including Gettysburg and the Poconos will be hoping that the final decision comes down in their favor.

The Pennsylvania casino gambling industry has been one of the fastest growing in the US. Earlier this year, lawmakers legalized table games, giving state casinos the opportunity to directly compete with New Jersey for gamblers in the Northeast.

Fernwood will not get another chance at a gaming license if they are denied this time around. A recent change that will go into effect after this licensee is chosen will make future licensed casinos be at least thirty miles from another casino in the state. Mount Airy is within thirty miles of Fernwood.

September 4, 2010
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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