Aug 16, 2019 3 min read

A new satellite casino approved to be built at a mall in Westmoreland County will give the county a boost with new jobs and revenue, but commissioners there have concerns over a name that will not reflect the community in which it will operate.

The state Gaming Control Board this week unanimously granted Stadium Casino LLC, owned by Cordish Companies of Maryland, a Category 4 satellite casino license to operate a casino in the shuttered Bon Ton space that the company will name Live! Casino Pittsburgh.

The commissioners are hopeful that some discussion with representatives from Cordish Companies could result in the selection of a more appropriate name.

“Hopefully, that’s not set in stone,” said Commissioner Gina Cerilli.

The commissioners said despite the name, they are thrilled that the project is moving forward and have learned from officials at Westmoreland County Community College that the company has reached out to the college to provide training for those interested in casino dealing.

Live! Casino Pittsburgh will offer 750 slot machines and 30 table games. The second floor, according to preliminary plans, will house a restaurant and bar area, an events center, and an entryway that connects with the existing on-site parking garage.

Renderings presented last year touted Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint as one of the options of nationally recognized eateries and bars that could be incorporated into the casino. Other nightlife venues and a sports betting area could also be included in the final design.

An impact study was submitted by the company to the township. At a hearing held last December, officials said the casino could bring 500 mostly full-time jobs with average annual salaries of $43,000.

A detailed timeline has not been released, but demolition inside the store was begun in April by the mall in preparation for the project. The facility is expected to open in 2020.

Cordish Companies paid $40 million for the casino license last summer.

The project is expected to generate $188 million in annual revenue for the county, with an additional $148 million from construction, which is predicted to bring 960 direct and indirect construction jobs.

In a statement released by the company, Joe Weinberg, managing partner, said the company is excited at having the license granted.

“We look forward to working with state and local officials, and the entire community, as we move forward with development of a true world-class destination that will attract people from throughout the region for a unique gaming and entertainment experience.”

Cerilli said the commissioners, likewise, are looking forward to a great working relationship with Cordish Companies.