First Massachusetts casino opens

achusetts has become the 40th US state to offer casino gambling, following the opening of the Plainridge Park Casino.

The $250m casino has been developed by operator Penn National Gaming, which was awarded a slots parlour licence by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission in February 2014.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to mark the official opening of the casino, which was attended by Doug Flutie, former quarterback of the National Football League’s New England Patriots, and Fred Lynn, former outfielder of Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox.

Penn National president and CEO Tim Wilmott said: “We’re thrilled for guests from throughout Massachusetts and beyond to experience Plainridge Park’s unique style of premier gaming, dining, and entertainment in a luxurious and modern atmosphere.”

Plainridge Park is a 106,000 square foot racing and gaming facility which employs more than 600 staff, while its gaming floor offers 1,250 games, including slot machines, video poker and virtual table games.

The Massachusetts Expanded Gaming Act was passed in 2011, allowing for three destination resort casinos and one slot facility in the state.

A majority of Massachusetts voters opted to uphold the law in November, as an approximate 60% of those who voted turned down the opportunity to repeal the law.