The construction of a new casino hotel in Concord, New Hampshire, is facing delays as the planning board has deferred approval for the proposed 43,000-square-foot facility to next month’s meeting. The project by Big Step encompasses a charitable gaming hall, a hotel, a restaurant, and a parking lot within the Gateway Performance District at 7 Break O Day Drive.
Public Safety Concerns Raised
During previous discussions, Concord Fire Chief John Chisholm and Police Chief Bradley Osgood expressed concerns about potential increases in crime and the impact of heightened traffic on emergency access in the city. In response, board members requested that the developers complete and submit their own emergency services impact assessment before the most recent meeting.
Further Delay for Review
At the recent meeting, the decision was postponed to the next month to allow city staff to thoroughly review the submitted report and address any issues raised. Nick Golan of developer TFMoran expressed frustration, stating that they had worked diligently to address concerns and were eager to present their findings.
Community Impact and Opposition
In New Hampshire, casinos are required to donate 35% of their gaming revenue to charities. While some local organizations, such as the Concord Lions Club, anticipate benefiting from the additional funds generated by the proposed casino, opposition from other Concord residents persists.
Potential Timeline and Employment Opportunities
If the plan ultimately receives approval, the casino could open its doors in approximately 18 months. The project is expected to create over 250 employment opportunities. The initial proposal for the casino hotel project was introduced in September.
The future of the Concord casino hotel project hinges on addressing public safety concerns, evaluating the impact on the local community, and gaining the necessary approvals to move forward with construction.
The delay in the approval process for the Concord casino hotel project underscores the significance of addressing public safety and community impact concerns when considering developments of this nature. As stakeholders continue to deliberate, the project’s potential contributions to employment and charitable endeavors in the region remain key points of discussion. The decision at next month’s meeting will be eagerly anticipated by all parties involved.