MGM Springfield announces opening date, earlier than expected

April 27, 2018 | G. Michael Dobbs
news@thereminder.com

Construction continues at the former Howard Street
National Guard Armory building that will be a
Faneuil Hall-style marketplace.

Reminder Publications file photo

SPRINGFIELD – In a surprise move, MGM Springfield announced through a press release on the morning of April 26 the casino will open on Aug. 24.

The significance is it marks the first time the casino giant has spoken of a firm date – in the past the opening date had been designated as in the fall or September – and it is earlier than any previous indications.

The announcement comes at a time when there has been much speculation about MGM Springfield’s future in light of a Wall Street Journal story that reported MGM is in talks to purchase the Wynn Boston harbor casino being built in Everett.

“A testament to a decade of collaboration between the city of Springfield and MGM Resorts, MGM Springfield will pay tribute to the city’s legacy and celebrate its bright future, while introducing a stellar array of hospitality and entertainment experiences that will attract guests from New England and beyond,” said Michael Mathis, President of MGM Springfield. “We are incredibly proud to debut what we believe will become the region’s premier entertainment destination and play a role in an exciting renaissance for Springfield.”

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno stated in the release, “I look forward to working with MGM Springfield for many years to come. They’re a world-class company and an outstanding corporate citizen. I deeply appreciate their belief and investment in our Springfield. I wish them continued success as we create another ‘Springfield first!’”

The company is in the midst of hiring staff and announcing amenities and business partnerships. Recently it was announced it would feature an Indian Motorcycle clothing shop and a TV studio with daily broadcasts from Western Mass News.

The company also has announced in the past few weeks some of its dining options from a Faneuil Hall format in the former Howard Street National Guard Armory building to  “Cal Mare by James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Mina; fine steaks and seafood at The Chandler Steak House with ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ season 14 winner Meghan Gill serving as executive chef; and MGM's signature TAP Sports Bar.”

The former First Spiritualist Church, which was moved to its present location from Bliss Street, will be the home to Kringle Candle’s Springfield location.

The release also spoke of an arts program for the casino: “Woven through all elements of the resort, a public fine art program inspired by the industrial ethos of Springfield will feature a captivating collection of commissioned and hand-selected pieces by international and local artists from Springfield, the greater Berkshires, New England and beyond.”

The Springfield Museums will exhibit artifacts from its collection at the casino denoting the city’s and region’s industrial legacy.

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