The SC Gaming Mini-Casino Expansion: Current Scenario
Possible Construction of a Mini-Casino at Nittany Mall Under Consideration
It's no secret that the casino industry is expanding at a rapid pace, and SC Gaming's plans for a mini-casino at Nittany Mall are just one example of this trend. Despite some obstacles, the project shows promise for revitalizing Centre County.
Legal Hurdles Overcome
Though there have been some hurdles to overcome, the legal challenges against SC Gaming OpCo led by real estate developer Ira Lubert have been resolved. Lubert clinched the Category 4 license auction with a $10 million bid back in September 2020.
Licensing Application under Progress
Recently, a Bally's executive submitted an application to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) for a principal license related to SC Gaming OpCo, LLC. This move is a critical part of the ongoing process for the State College casino project.
Construction and Project Status
The casino is currently under construction, reflecting continued interest in the project from various players. Initial challenges and changes in the development group, including Bally's Corp.'s exit last fall, have not deterred progress.
Key Players
- Ira Lubert: A Penn State alumnus and former chair of the university's Board of Trustees, Lubert spearheads SC Gaming OpCo, LLC.
- Bally's Executive: Involved in the licensing process, indicating ongoing interest in the casino's operation despite Bally's exit from the development group.
A Look Ahead
The project is set to bring a new casino to State College, with the legal hurdles cleared and the licensing application process ongoing. Finalizing the operational structure is the next step in this exciting development.
Visitors can expect to find 30 table games, 750 slot machines, a sports betting area, a restaurant, and a bar at the casino. The project seeks community support for job positions once construction is complete.
For the municipality, 2% of slot machine revenues and 1% of table game revenues will provide a much-needed economic boost. It's a win-win situation for all involved, provided the licensing application is approved.
Casino enthusiasts in the area will gain another venue to enjoy, and those not into gambling will have two more options for entertainment. Stay tuned for more updates as this project unfolds.
- Despite some legal challenges, Penn State alumnus and former Board of Trustees chair, Ira Lubert, leader of SC Gaming OpCo, LLC, has overcome obstacles and clinched a Category 4 license for the construction of a mini-casino.
- Bally's executive has recently submitted an application to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for a principal license related to the SC Gaming OpCo, LLC, a crucial step in the ongoing process for the State College casino project.
- The construction of the casino is currently in progress, showcasing continued interest among various players, including Bally's, despite their departure from the development group in the fall.
- Once completed, visitors can anticipate a wide array of casino-games such as 30 table games, 750 slot machines, a sports betting area, a restaurant, and a bar at the casino, while the local community can expect an economic boost from the casino-culture, with 2% of slot machine revenues and 1% of table game revenues going to the municipality.
