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Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs brightens local economy

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs currently has 1,219 employees. Along with the additional 360 positions filled by tenant retail and restaurant operators at the complex, the total employment at the facility is almost 1,600. "Applicants have been coming in droves to apply," said Kawel Laubach, Director of Human Resources. Project Sunrise has been a significant contributor to the job creation at the Pocono Downs facility. According to Laubach, "We'll have filled 700 new jobs at MSPD by the time we open," he added.

The economic impact of the new Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs has been recognized and welcomed by the regional business community. "While the jobs they're bringing are a clear benefit to the community," said Todd Vonderheid, President of the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry, "Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs is bringing more than money. Under the direction of President and CEO Bobby Soper they've given their time and leadership and voice to community charities and to such important local issues as immigration and light passenger rail transportation. Mohegan Sun is making a significant contribution to the growth and future of this entire Region."

Vonderheid said his roles in regional economic and real estate development have taken him to 100 different company locations in Northeastern Pennsylvania over the past 10 years. Of Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs he said, "No company has so quickly become a valued corporate neighbor and part of the business and social fabric of their community."

Vonderheid believes Mohegan Sun's capital investment demonstrated a strong commitment to the community. "They could have done it cheaper but they chose to do it in a quality way, working with local organized labor and skilled craftsmen, an approach that reflects the culture of the Mohegan Tribe," he said. "This will be a wonderful addition to amenities in Northeastern Pennsylvania, not just for gambling but as an entertainment destination."

According to Merle Mackin, Executive Director of the Luzerne County Convention and Visitors Bureau "that whole corridor is on fire. Business activity was increasing before Project Sunrise got underway and now it's even more so." Mackin said there's been a "fairly substantial increase in room tax revenue since last November, an 8-10% increase," which he attributes to an increase in the number of visitors to Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Noting that the primary mission of the Convention and Visitors Bureau is to "put heads in beds," Mackin said "We've had a significant amount if interstate interest expressed as reflected by phone callers asking where to exit from I-81 to get to Mohegan Sun."

Finishing construction touches continue on the $208 million, approximately 300,000 square foot casino project designed to deliver an exceptional gaming and entertainment experience to residents of Northeastern Pennsylvania and tourists traveling through the region.

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