It seems that the stalemate on Philadelphia’s casino developments could be broken. SugarHouse is sticking to its guns at present, insisting that it has no intention of relocating from its planned Delaware River location, but in August Foxwoods agreed to consider moving away from the riverfront. Philadelphia City Council is doing everything in its power to prevent the two casinos licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) from being built along the river. In April 2007 the Council, in a move popular with residents, approved a zoning change aimed at barring the slots development.

Both Foxwoods and SugarHouse filed lawsuits against Philadelphia City Council. In June 2007 the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled that a group of residents and civic associations that had appealed the decision to allow the casino developments had no legal standing to challenge licensing decisions of the PGCB. The Supreme Court also ruled that cities cannot choose the sites where casinos are to be located. Since that time various tactics have delayed any progress on the two casino projects, including the new Mayor of Philadelphia revoking a building licence issued by his predecessor in order for more detailed studies to be undertaken.

Since his election Mayor Nutter has continued to lobby State Government to relocate the casinos away from the shores of the Delaware River where under the present plans they interfere with the city’s concept of ‘a walkable, accessible, connected and sustainable riverfront’ that will blend with adjacent city neighbourhoods. It is not yet known what other area of Philadelphia Foxwoods may be considering as a new site for its slots operation but rumours are rife and well aired in local newspapers. If the investors do opt for relocation and avoid further council inflicted delays they could find that Foxwoods is up and running while SugarHouse is still arguing its case. (E-09.08.08)

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