Pittsburgh Casino Not Yet Open But Already Has A New Name

The city of Pittsburgh is known largely for the success of their NFL team, the Steelers. They are looking for a slight identity change by opting for a casino in the city. That identity change, however, will not be reflected in the casinos name.

Don Barden had the dream of bringing a casino to downtown Pittsburgh. He was awarded the keys to his dream by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board when they gave him a license and contract to build the casino in the city.

Barden ran out of money during the building process, however, and never got to realize his dream. Billionaire Neil Bluhm put together an investment team and received the approval of the Board to transfer the license from Barden to Holdings Acquisition Co., the company formed by Walton Street Capital LLC and High Pitt Gaming LP.

Part of what the company bought the rights to was the name of the casino, and they opted against Majestic Star. The new name for the casino that was submitted to the Planning Commission on Tuesday was "Rivers Casino."

We selected the name because it reflects the integral role the rivers have had in shaping Pittsburgh's history and character. we believe our location and development along the Ohio River is as unique as Pittsburgh," said spokesman Dan Fee.

With all of the setbacks that have slowed the process, the new development group is still confident the casino will be open soon. They are currently planning on opening sometime in 2009.

November 19, 2008
Posted By Larry Rutherford
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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