Soper says he anticipates the award of a gaming license by Sept. 1, and, although specific plans for groundbreaking of Phase I are not final, "we hope to open that phase by the end of this year." He expects the opening phase to include major renovations of the existing grandstand, construction of a facility to contain 1,080 slot machines, a food court and other amenities at a cost of about $70 million.

The new building in Phase I may or may not continue to house slots, "but it is not a temporary facility," Soper says. "It will be used one way or another, but the main casino will be constructed during Phase II." That phase, which will break ground on completion of Phase I, is estimated to cost $135 million. Its main building will hold up to an additional 2,000 slots and also include nightclubs, lounges, retail and KidQuest. Soper says construction will take about 14 months.

To mitigate the municipal tax burden, Soper says MTGA plans to apply for up to $15 million in state development funds. Conversations with Luzerne County, Plains Township and Wilkes-Barre officials representing the entities that provide state grants, indicate the "relief will be granted," he says. "They appreciate the magnitude of this project, its economic benefit and creation of up to 1,000 new jobs. The state has grant funds and other financial incentives available that are already designated for new development," he adds.

These, combined with the amended purchase agreement with Penn National, will give the authority "adequate return on its investment," Soper says. Consequently, MTGA has rescheduled a previously cancelled two-day job fair. It will take place Sept. 12 and 13.