Hospitality firm MGM Resorts International has broken ground on the new casino resort in downtown Springfield, Massachusetts, US.
Developed with an investment of $800m, the new mixed-use project MGM Springfield is expected to be opened in the third quarter of 2017.
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MGM is developing the project in partnership with Davenport Properties on land currently occupied by the damaged South End Community Centre and Zanetti School.
MGM Resorts International chairman Jim Murren said: "With every licensing milestone and every campaign victory, we have honored the potential of MGM Springfield.
"Today is even more special, though, as we put shovels in the ground to officially celebrate what we came here to do, put people back to work and begin a rebirth of the once thriving urban centre of western Massachusetts."
The new mixed-use development will include a 25-storey and 250-room hotel, featuring a world-class spa, pool and roof deck.
The property will also feature 125,000ft² of gaming space with 3,000 slot machines, 75 gaming tables, a poker room and a high-limit VIP gambling area.
MGM’s new property will also include 55,000ft² of retail and restaurant space that can accommodate 15 shops, restaurants and a multi-level parking garage.
In addition, the project was designed to include a dining, retail and entertainment district with an eight-screen cinema, bowling alley and an outdoor stage.
According to MGM Resorts, the new project will create 3,000 permanent jobs and 2,000 construction jobs.
Image: MGM Resorts has started the construction of new casino resort in downtown Springfield. Photo: courtesy of MGM Resorts International.
