AJ News

PARADISE TWP. -- Earlier this afternoon, Mount Airy Casino Resort near Mount Poocno filed an application with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board seeking approval for a Table Game Operation Certificate.  

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“Mount Airy is eager and excited at prospect of the introduction of table games,” said Mount Airy general counsel Don Shiffer.  “This is the very first step and as we progress, we look forward to working with the gaming board in realizing that goal.”  

  Senate Bill 711, now Act 1 of 2010, provides authorization for existing Pennsylvania casinos to conduct table games through the filing of a petition with the Gaming Control Board.  Prior to considering a petition, the board will hold a public input hearing on the matter in the municipality where the petitioner's licensed slot machine facility is located.  The board now has 60 days to render its approval.   

“The introduction of table games is not only important for Monroe County, it’s significant for the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” said Mount Airy owner Dr. Lisa DeNaples. “Table games will allow the entire state the opportunity for economic growth and financial viability.”   

Mount Airy plans to introduce 54 table games -- black jack, roulette, craps, mini baccarat -- on the main floor, four high-end tables on the third floor overlooking the lake and 15 poker tables overlooking the floor. The creation of 225 to 250 jobs directly related to table games is anticipated.   

In addition, Mount Airy plans on a possible construction phase to add additional hotel rooms, anywhere from 200 to 400 rooms and/or a mixed-use development of the 1,500 acres which could include chain hotels located near the main resort.   

“Today is a monumental day in the history of the Poconos,” said Mount Airy President and CEO George Toth. "As we look to the future of table games at Mount Airy Casino Resort, we look forward to the addition of jobs and added revenue to the region.”