New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
First Light Resort & Casino
Financing for the casino comes from the Malaysian Genting Group and support came and comes from such high profile figures like Senator John Kerry, past Governor Deval Patrick, and former Congressman Bill Delahunt. In 2011, a law was passed by the Massachusetts legislature which allowed for three gaming resort sites within the state and one more location for a slots-based site.
It would be redundant to cover what happened here in New Bedford as a proposed site, since it was so recent in memory. On Tuesday, April 3rd, ground was broken on the 151 acre industrial park in Taunton and the $1 billion dollar Las Vegas style casino, hotel, entertainment complex, came one step closer to becoming a reality.
Artist’s sketch of the completed First Light Resort & Casino. (mashpeewampanoagtribe.com)
The First Light Resort & Casino is expected to open its doors in phases, with the first phase expected some time in 2017. This phase will encompass 150,000 sq.ft. 3,000 slots, 150 table games, and 40 poker tables. A food court containing 7-10 restaurants, including an international buffet, and a central bar will also be included along with just shy of a dozen retail outlets. A parking garage with approximately 3,000 spots and a lot with 2,000 spots will support this phase.
The 12 story 300 room, high-end hotel, more restaurants and gaming, spa, pool, roof terrace, and event rooms are planned for Phase 2 which is expected to take 2-2 1/2 years to complete. A more modest 300 room hotel and massive 24 hour cafe restaurant will complete Phase 3, taking 3-5 years. The final phase will include a 24,000 seat event arena, 25,000 sq.f.t indoor/outdoor water park with a 300 room hotel and more parking and expected to take at least 5 years.
The entire project is expected to create almost 1,000 well paying, union jobs for the state generating approximately $80 million dollars in salaries and $120 million in economic impact. Once up and running it will continue to generate tax revenue for the town and state, create jobs, and stimulate the region.
Ironic considering how much has been taken from the Wampanoag Indian’ through the centuries.
If you would like to find out more about the Mashpee Wampanoag or the First Light Resort & Casino project, including its environmental and economic impact, visit these sites:
Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Website: mashpeewampanoagtribe.com
Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Facebook: facebook.com/mwtribe/
Hi, I would like to know, is there any old carving, which is typical of your tribe on old paddle war clubs, ball headed clubs etc…and also some artifacts such as spoons, ladles, knives?
Best Regards, Jan