Gaming News

Edmonton Casino Plan Draws Criticism

EDMONTON, Alberta – As reported by the Edmonton Sun: "Moving the Baccarat Casino closer to downtown apartments and tripling its size could hurt property values and is unfair to landowners, critics say.

"'To change it and move it around is sort of stabbing people in the back,' said Brice Davidson, president of the downtown community league.

"…'Property owners bought nearby downtown land expecting it would develop as a "trendy warehouse district,' he said. But the proposed casino and Superstore development would change city plans for that area, he said.

"…Ward 4 Coun. Michael Phair agreed a new casino could suppress property values that might otherwise rise faster if new apartment buildings were erected in the area.

"…The Baccarat Casino owners, Gateway Casinos Inc., are applying to build the new $55-million, 9,000-square-metre casino, which would include an upscale restaurant, an entertainment area, a central lounge and more gaming space. The building that would extend about a block northeast of 104 Street and 104 Avenue is closer to neighbouring apartments than the existing 2,700-square-metre building…"

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