MGM Springfield Reopens All Non-Gambling Amenities Closed Since COVID

MGM Springfield, one of three resort casinos in Massachusetts, sought to completely revamp the downtown business district by introducing its casino resort in 2018. This ambitious project came as a response to a devastating tornado that struck the city in 2011.

Aftermath of a devastating incident left approximately one-third of the downtown area in ruins. The implementation of MGM Springfield was expected to revitalize the economically depressed region and transform it into a bustling hub of entertainment. Unfortunately, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic put a sudden halt to the ongoing efforts of rejuvenating the downtown area.

Although the introduction of sports betting in Massachusetts has given a much-needed boost to the facility, MGM Springfield has additional plans beyond gambling to regain momentum.

Entertainment and employment goals

As a result of the pandemic, MGM Springfield and the two other casinos in the state were forced to close their doors for a duration of three months in 2020. This unfortunate circumstance led to a significant decline in revenue, which only managed to regain stability and reach pre-COVID levels in 2022.

Despite generating revenue from slot machines and table games, certain non-gambling forms of entertainment at the casino either remained closed or experienced delayed re-opening.

In January, Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and other Springfield leaders held a meeting with executives from MGM Resorts International. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the re-opening of non-gambling attractions and retail outlets. The local officials urged the casino to expedite the re-opening of these venues in order to fulfill their community agreement commitments.

The meeting was deemed successful by the city government.

Sarno stated in a release that the meeting was highly beneficial and fruitful, as it confirmed MGM Springfield’s dedication to the property. During the meeting, they disclosed concrete plans to reopen and enhance their attractions and amenities.

In mid-March, MGM Springfield successfully reopened and expanded the operating hours of its entertainment, dining, and retail establishments. The festive occasion also marked the grand reopening of the Indian Motorcycle 1901 store within the casino premises. The event was attended by Sarno, Chris Kelley (COO of MGM Springfield), and various local politicians.

After enduring the economic blows of the pandemic, the store’s re-opening symbolizes a remarkable comeback, as it will now offer merchandise for the Springfield Thunderbirds, the minor league hockey team sponsored by the casino.

In 2013, MGM Springfield committed to a set of entertainment and employment objectives as a part of its Host Community Agreement with the city.

The entertainment objectives included:

• There is a minimum requirement of 7,000 square feet for the retail area that is connected to the casino floor and is positioned towards Main and State Streets with entrances facing these streets.
• There will be a minimum of 20,300 square feet dedicated to retail space, designed at a scale suitable for pedestrians. These retail spaces will be situated along Main and Union streets, offering direct access and visibility. Additionally, the development will include a cinema multiplex and a bowling alley.
• There are a minimum of seven establishments that are uniquely identified as restaurants, lounges, or cafes, each with their own distinct branding.
• MassMutual Center, Symphony Hall, or City Stage feature a consistent lineup of entertainment events.
• During the winter season, a publicly accessible ice-skating rink is available for use.

Employment objectives downgraded

The employment agreement mandates the casino to offer a minimum of 3,000 permanent jobs. Among these positions, a minimum of 35% should be occupied by residents of the city, while workers from outside the surrounding area should not exceed 10% of the total positions.

Following the January meeting, Sarno emphasized the importance of the casino fulfilling its promise to provide employment opportunities for local residents. He stated that the MGM executives had reiterated their dedication to enhancing and expanding the job prospects within the establishment.

Sarno stated that there are currently 279 available positions that they are prepared and capable of filling. The hotel is fully operational, yet they require individuals to apply and fill these vacancies in order to progress towards reaching maximum capacity at the hotel and initiate the complete reopening of all areas on the property. They are even willing to cover the expenses for potential job candidates to receive the necessary training to become a dealer.

Those living in the area who are interested in applying for jobs at MGM Springfield can find information about available opportunities on the casino’s Career Center webpage.

In January, MGM Springfield introduced a retail sportsbook and subsequently listed job opportunities specifically related to sports wagering. The inauguration of the sportsbook resulted in the creation of 20 new casino jobs.

Although the numbers are encouraging, the casino falls short of employing the projected 3,000 workers outlined in the Host Community Agreement. In a January meeting, Bill Hornbuckle, the President and CEO of MGM Resorts International, acknowledged that the goal of 3,000 employees is impractical and suggested that 2,000 is a more feasible number considering economic realities.

Hornbuckle informed city officials that the building has the potential to accommodate 3,000 job opportunities. However, achieving this would require efforts to enhance Springfield’s appeal as a popular location, and MGM cannot solely take on this responsibility. Collaboration is necessary for success.

The review of Raynham Park’s Caesars Sportsbook application has been postponed to April 12th.