Salem, New Hampshire has recently given the green light for a charitable casino to be established in the former Lord & Taylor store at The Mall at Rockingham Park. This decision was made by a five-to-two vote by local officials, paving the way for the construction of the Live! Casino, estimated to cost around $160 million and set to open in 2025.
Concerns and Support
During the planning board meeting, attorney Amy Manzelli, representing neighboring property owners, raised several concerns about the project’s impact on the neighborhood, including public safety, traffic, lighting, and pedestrian safety. Additionally, there were concerns about a prior deed restriction that prohibited gambling at the location. However, despite these concerns, many members of the public expressed their support for the casino, citing a previous town vote in favor of such a facility.
Positive Development
Salem Town Council Chair Joe Sweeney expressed his excitement about the casino project, calling it a positive development that the town has been anticipating for some time. The construction is expected to begin early next year, with the possibility of a hotel being added to the complex in the future. The casino is projected to generate $31 million in revenue annually for the state of New Hampshire and approved charities, as well as create over 700 permanent jobs once operational.
Additional Casino Opening
In addition to the Live! Casino in Salem, another charitable casino called The Nash Casino is set to open soon at the Pheasant Lane Mall in Nashua, New Hampshire. This casino, developed by ECL Entertainment and Clairvest, will feature over 1,000 historic horse race machines, table games, and occupy a two-story, 180,000-square-foot former Sears store that has been vacant since 2020.
In conclusion, the approval of charitable casinos in New Hampshire marks a significant development for the state’s gaming industry, offering new entertainment options, job opportunities, and revenue sources for the local community.
