MGM Resorts Pursuing Gambling License At National Harbor
NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (WJZ) -- Promising Vegas on the Potomac. MGM Resorts files paperwork to build a resort casino at National Harbor in Prince George's County.
Alex DeMetrick reports if approved, it could dwarf Maryland's other casinos.
When you're in the business of building big, MGM Resorts has staked out its share of Las Vegas. And to do something on that scale in Maryland, it's focused on National Harbor in Prince George's County.
Across the Potomac from Virginia and D.C., it would be Maryland's largest resort casino. Just how large was hinted at in the number of boxes it brought to Maryland Lottery's gaming control agency.
"There's not a lot we can tell you, but obviously it's our submission," said Lorenzo Creighton, MGM National Harbor.
While the details of that submission remain secret for now, the end result of winning a gambling license would be a Vegas-sized project.
"Absolutely. When you look at MGM's properties in Vegas, one thing you'll note is we really focus on quality hotel rooms, great entertainment, great restaurants, spas, retail outlets and jobs. In this case, thousands of jobs in Prince George's County," Creighton said.
Right now, the big player is Maryland Live Casino in Anne Arundel County. Like most casinos in-state, it lobbied hard to win table games. But the catch was approval of a Prince George's County casino.
MGM would be serious competition.
"We know how to compete. We have world class facilities. We'll compete," said David Cordish, Maryland Live Casino.
All applicants have until 2 p.m. Friday to submit their proposals. Until then, agency employees cannot comment on any of the plans.
MGM's is likely to take a lot of reading.
It's not clear if there are other proposals for a casino in Prince George's County. If so, they may be announced Friday.
A decision by the state will be made next December.
