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Powerful Neighbors Criticize Pittsburgh Casino Plan

PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania – As reported by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: "Three heavy hitters on the North Shore -- the Steelers, the Pirates and Equitable Resources -- don't like the idea of having a slot-machine casino as their neighbor.

"'It would not be a good idea at all,' Steelers President Art Rooney II said yesterday. 'A casino on General Robinson Street is inconsistent with the presence of two professional sports franchises and one college football program.'

"He feared the possible growth of illegal sports betting if a casino takes root so close.

"…Equitable Resources Chairman Murry S. Gerber said his firm 'strongly opposes the proposed North Shore casino development,' which would be close to the company's corporate headquarters, now under construction just west of PNC Park.

"…Pirates Chief Executive Officer Kevin McClatchy, who met yesterday with Alco Parking President Merrill Stabile and other backers of the casino, wasn't quite as blunt, but still expressed reservations.

"…McClatchy also said that Major League Baseball and the National Football League 'don't look that fondly on gambling that they would want a casino next door' to a stadium.

"…The state Legislature and Gov. Ed Rendell still have much negotiating to do before legislation is approved to expand legalized gambling in Pennsylvania…"

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