Milford Votes Down Foxwoods' Casino Proposal
MILFORD (CBS/AP) — Residents of Milford have rejected a proposal to build a $1 billion casino, further cutting into the field of potential candidates for the state's first regional resort casino licenses.
Foxwoods chief executive Scott Butera conceded defeat Tuesday, telling supporters that based on unofficial returns from the referendum, the project will not prevail.
Crossroads Massachusetts had proposed a casino off Interstate 495 that would have been managed by Foxwoods.
Opinion was sharply divided in the town of about 25,000 residents, with opponents warning of traffic jams and reduced property values, and supporters touting jobs and new revenue for Milford.
"We respect the choice Milford voters made today," Scott Butera said in a statement. "Throughout this process we've gotten to know Milford and thousands of its residents. While we worked hard to offer a resort casino we believe would benefit the area, the town made a decision similar to many other communities across the state. Though the outcome isn't what we hoped for, we have a high regard for the residents of Milford and will part ways having learned from the experience. We invite everyone to come visit Foxwoods in Connecticut."
The Milford result comes on the heels of votes earlier this month against Mohegan Sun in Palmer and Suffolk Downs in East Boston.
Mohegan Sun has asked for a recount while Suffolk Downs is now considering a casino in Revere.
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