|
|
|
 |
Memorial Day Has Meaning at Steel Mill Turned Casino
BETHLEHEM, PENNSYLVANIA --
The Bethlehem Sands Casino Resort officially opened for business yesterday morning. The new casino begins its operations on Memorial Day weekend, fitting for local families not only thinking of veterans but also the steel mill which fed them for generations before being converted to a gambling facility.
The Bethlehem Steel plant was the backbone of the regional economy for decades. Only US Steel was bigger in the industry. But pricey union packages combined with improvisational competition to drive the company bankrupt in 2001.
Las Vegas Sands built a casino and resort on the framework of the old mill, spending $743 million and providing hundreds of jobs to the economically blighted region. After months of construction, including a suspension of the development of accompanying retail space due to the recession, Sands completed the project.
A dry run last week went off successfully, and profits generated were donated to local charities. Once again, the site of the old mill is ready to lead the area's economy forward.
The casino hosts 3000 slot machines, and will eventually enjoy all the amenities of a top Las Vegas resort, with restaurants, hotel space, and shopping. A big crowd is expected to pack the place for opening weekend, and Sands management hopes to draw players from New York and New Jersey.
Ironically, one of the problems during the building of the casino was the procurement of sufficient steel. But the steel was found, the casino has opened, and Memorial Day has a new bittersweet meaning for Bethlehem families.
Previous USA Casino News Articles
Post A Comment
|
 |
|
|
|
