MGM Springfield Taking A Page Out Of The Patriots’ Playbook

The MGM Springfield project is gradually revealing its complete scope as additional information is disclosed by Mass Live.

Contrary to expectations of it being just another casino, the project appears to be emulating the success of another renowned Massachusetts landmark, namely Gillette Stadium and Patriot Place.

Patriot Place, the shopping and entertainment hub encircling Gillette Stadium, the renowned home of the New England Patriots in the NFL, has truly revolutionized the scenery of Foxboro, Massachusetts.

How Robert Kraft kept the Patriots in New England

During the early 1990s, the Patriots’ franchise was subject to ridicule and considered a failure. The team faced constant uncertainty and there were doubts about its future in Foxboro.

Over the years, Foxboro had effectively catered to the needs of the franchise. However, with the advent of the modern NFL, the prevailing trend leaned towards gigantic new stadiums situated in densely populated areas.

Robert Kraft was the sole factor causing the delay in the sale of the Patriots.

The stadium that the team, Foxboro Stadium, called home was owned by Kraft. Moreover, he had a firm and long-term lease agreement with the team, which he adamantly declined to renegotiate with potential buyers who were eager to relocate the Patriots elsewhere.

In 1994, Robert Kraft successfully acquired the struggling New England Patriots franchise, despite facing some opposition. While others considering purchasing the team entertained the thought of relocating from Foxboro, Kraft only briefly entertained such notions.

The perceptive businessman possessed the ability to perceive what others were unable to. He looked past the secluded setting, the unpaved parking lots, and the outdated stadium where one of the least successful football franchises in history played their home games to less-than-capacity crowds.

The creation by Kraft in Foxboro is truly remarkable.

Kraft’s grand vision

Patriot Place, a massive shopping and entertainment complex, now stands on the very land that prevented the Patriots from relocating. This transformation took place when the modern Gillette Stadium was established in 2002.

Patriot Place has experienced a rapid expansion since its inception in 2007, with the addition of various establishments, including but not limited to:

• Patriots Hall of Fame
• CBS Scene restaurant
• There are more than 20 dining options available within a retail space spanning 1.3 million square feet.
• The four-star Renaissance Hotel
• A 14-screen movie theater

There are additional forms of entertainment available, such as a bowling alley, escape rooms, and a paint bar.

Patriot Place stands out from other sports stadiums by being lively and buzzing every day of the week.

Returning to the topic of MGM Springfield, MGM Resorts appears to be following Kraft’s strategy. While they are constructing a casino, similar to Kraft’s stadium, it will offer much more than just gambling.

MGM Springfield is much more than a casino

MGM Springfield stands out from other casinos by actively collaborating with the city to revitalize and transform Springfield into a sought-after destination.

The casino itself is undeniably impressive, as it boasts:

• 3,000 slot machines
• 100 table games
• 250-room, four-star boutique hotel
• There are a total of eight establishments, which consist of restaurants, dining options, and bars.
• A total of 26,000 square feet dedicated for retail purposes.
• There are various entertainment choices available, such as a bowling alley and a cinema.
• An attached parking garage with a capacity of 3,375 spaces.

In this article, Mass Live sheds light on several unconventional components of the project.

Casino training program

Located at 95 State St. in Springfield, the Massachusetts Casino Career Training Institute is a collaborative effort between MGM Springfield, Springfield Technical Community College, and Holyoke Community College. Its primary objective is to provide comprehensive training for individuals aspiring to become dealers, croupiers, and table games employees. The official inauguration of the Institute is scheduled for February 26th.

Commitment to market-rate housing

The former Armory building, which will serve as an architectural highlight at the Main St. entrance, was acquired by MGM Springfield along with several other unused buildings from the city.

MGM recently acquired a dilapidated building situated at 31 Elm St. Their objective is to collaborate with the city and private developers to transform this building into 40 units of market-rate housing.

MGM Springfield plans to invest $11 million towards the total redevelopment cost of approximately $40 million, as reported by MassLive. Additionally, MGM has acquired the former School Department building on State St. to further expand their market-rate housing offerings.

Off-site entertainment

MGM Springfield intends to offer a variety of entertainment options, both on-site and off-site, by collaborating with various Springfield venues such as MassMutual Center, CityStage, and Symphony Hall.

Outdoor public use areas

Alongside the armory, the Main St. entrance area will serve as a prominent attraction for both locals and tourists. This area will feature a plaza that will not only showcase holiday displays but also host a community ice rink.

Springfield trolley line

MGM has been engaged in fascinating talks with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission regarding the establishment of a trolley system in downtown Springfield. This proposal aims to connect MGM Springfield with various attractions in the area, including the renowned Quadrangle, housing five museums, and the prestigious Basketball Hall of Fame. Moreover, there is potential to extend the trolley line to incorporate a stop at Forest Park, known for hosting one of the state’s most beloved holiday light displays.

This photo was taken by Richard Cavalleri and can be found on Shutterstock.com.