Philadelphia gambling breaks ground amid protests

As reported by the Philadelphia Inquirer: “With protest chants often drowning out the applause of supporters, the lead investor behind the SugarHouse Casino today called the project a ‘great addition to the city’ before joining other investors and Mayor Nutter to break ground on the $310 million waterfront project.

“Chicago developer Neil Bluhm said the last three yearse have been ‘a long road’ for the controversial slots parlor on North Delaware Avenue in Fishtown-Northern Liberties.

“‘We’ll have some fun. We’ll create some jobs and we’ll help beautify part of Delaware Avenue,’ Bluhm told about 300 community, political and financial supporters seated under a party tent.

“Bluhm said the casino will be built in 10 months. It will create 500 full-time jobs and 500 construction jobs…”