Springfield developer, lobbyist pitch downtown casino
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Some officials in Springfield are pushing for a casino in Illinois' capital city, but the effort faces major legislative hurdles.
State lawmakers would have to approve a license, but there are few signs the two-year state budget impasse that's overshadowed other issues in Springfield will end. Also, legislative attempts aimed at expanding gambling haven't included a Springfield casino.
Still, a lobbyist and developer say a downtown casino could help expand an economy that's been dependent on state government.
The (Springfield) State Journal-Register reports (http://bit.ly/2rw6yMH) they're pitching a 1,200-position casino, which they say could create up to 800 jobs and generate as much as $175 million in revenue.
City officials, including Mayor Jim Langfelder, say they're open to the idea.
___
Information from: The State Journal-Register, http://www.sj-r.com