Gaming Officials Monkeying With Land Use

Posted by: Tim Halbur

14 September 2009 - 11:00am

In Philadelphia, the Gaming Control Board is made up of 10 men, 9 of which don't live in the city. A recent decision by the board will destroy two planned developments that would have improve Philly's character, says arch. critic Inga Saffron.

Developer Foxwoods had planned a slots parlor in Philadelphia's commercial core, but the gaming commission ordered it moved to a greenfield along the Delaware River.

"Foxwoods' effort to set up a Market Street gambling operation in the elegant spaces of the former Strawbridge & Clothier department store was not without its challenges - or controversy. But the site appealed to a broad constituency who believed that an entertainment use represented the last, best hope for the historic emporium - now going into its fourth year of darkness - as well as a tonic for Philadelphia's ailing retail street."

Full Story: Changing Skyline: Time to play hardball on site for Foxwoods

Source: The Philadelphia Inquirer, September 11, 2009