Wilkes-Barre, PA (November 14, 2006) – Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs made history today with a grand opening ceremony, introducing slot machine gaming in Pennsylvania. State and local officials were present as Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Catherine Baker Knoll joined Mohegan Sun officials in pulling a ceremonial slot machine handle to open the casino.
The construction of the 90,000 square foot two-level gaming space including a food court began in September of 2005 with the removal of the facility’s old grandstand. The investment in this Phase I project was approximately $72.6 million. The casino operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and houses almost 1,100 new slot machines with denominations ranging from one cent to $25. The main level is smoke-free with approximately one-third of the games. There is a casino bar and food court located on the main level with future plans for a patio restaurant. The first level hosts the majority of the games as well as a snack bar and casino bar. All the newest and hottest game titles are on display, including more than 500 reel games, over 450 video slots and an array of video poker games. The games feature the coin-free ticket in/ticket out technology.
Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs presents live harness racing from March to November and provides simulcasting of the top races throughout the country year-round. The facility, originally known simply as Pocono Downs, opened as a harness racetrack on July 15, 1965.
Plans for a Phase II gaming and entertainment facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs have been previously announced. The project would be developed on land adjacent to the existing gaming location. When completed, the facility is anticipated to include approximately 2,500 slot machines, a variety of restaurants, a 300 seat buffet, an expanded food court, retail shopping, nightlife venues, additional parking and bus amenities. Construction is expected to commence in 2007 with a grand opening planned for mid-2008. Phase II is anticipated to cost between $140 million and $150 million.