The Salem Chamber has been an early and vocal supporter of the casino proposal at Suffolk Downs for a host of reasons, including the $45 million in transportation and infrastructure improvements that benefit commuters, airport traffic and residents alike.
Tomorrow morning I am speaking at a forum in Revere City Hall on the Regional Economic Impacts of a Resort Casino at Suffolk Downs. I’ve been asked to focus on the linkage with the North Shore Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Industry. Other panelists include Tony Sheridan, President & – CEO Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut and Gary Luderitz, Vice President, Operations and Development for the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority.
Mohegan Sun already signed a neighboring community agreement with Salem and 6 other North Shore communities and is committed to buy locally and be a regional player. Local businesses, hotels, attractions and restaurants will have access to Mohegan’s industry leading player’s club points program.
I see the cross marketing of the casino with hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions and cultural institutions as beneficial for all involved. Travelers and casino visitors will want to get the true New England experience, and the North Shore is ready to give them that. We’ll tell everyone to just follow the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway to get that unique experience everyone is looking for!
Rinus Oosthoek
Executive Director
rinus@salem-chamber.org
The Salem Chamber of Commerce Blog 