MGC approves East of Broadway with conditions

  The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) recently voted 4-0 to approve a list of seven conditions for the proposed East of Broadway project. However, the MGC determined that it will have no “regulatory interest” in the development and that it will not be considered part of Encore Boston Harbor.

  During the March 14 meeting, Attorney Todd Grossman, general counsel for the MGC, said one of the primary conditions pertained to seating in the events center. The condition states that the events center would either have fewer than 1,000 ticketed seats or more than 3,500 ticketed seats. “As long as it’s more than 3,500 or less than 1,000, they would be in the clear,” said Grossman.

  MGC Chair Cathy Judd-Stein said the number of patrons should not be a top concern. “I’m actually not concerned if 1,500 people are on the floor at once,” she said.

  Another condition requires that Wynn Development submit a security plan for the development’s parking garage at least 60 days prior to opening. “One of the concerns that was raised was the potential for minors to be left inside a vehicle,” said Grossman.

  Therefore, routine patrols will be conducted. In the event that children are found in a vehicle unattended, the Everett Police Department will be notified immediately.

  Grossman also called attention to the pedestrian bridge that will span over Lower Broadway. He said the plans for the bridge must clearly show the point where the bridge connects to Encore. There must also be security measures in place, including surveillance cameras, checkpoints and patrol procedures. The plan must be submitted to the MGC at least 90 days prior to construction.

  Despite having earlier reservations, MGC Commissioner Bradford Hill said he is in favor of the conditions. “I’m fine with the language that has been put forth; it addresses the concerns that I had,” he said. However, Hill said Encore also needed to be in agreement before he could cast an affirmative vote.

  Attorney Jacqui Krum, general counsel for Encore, said the casino would comply with the MGC’s conditions. “We are agreeable to all the conditions set forth,” she said.

  MGC Commissioner Eileen O’Brien said other developments will likely follow once East of Broadway is completed. “Clearly, if things go well, this is not going to be the last development in that area,” she said.