By Jacquie Slater, WTNH Reporter
BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) — A new survey conducted by a group for MGM Resorts International has revealed support for a proposed casino in Bridgeport.
The survey, conducted by The Mellman Group, asked 500 registered voters in the city of Bridgeport a number of questions regarding the casino.
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The survey found that the plan is supported by 79% of men as opposed to 14% and women 70% to 20%.
“It creates jobs. It creates entertainment. It definitely makes Bridgeport more of a place to go,” said Rachel Concepcion, a Bridgeport resident.
“I’m excited. I kind of wanna work there. I’m excited for it to come cause I’m like can I work here and there? Cause I need money,” said Talisha Burrs of Bridgeport.
It also broke down statistics by race, with the proposal being supported by African-Americans 74% to 16%, Latinos 78% to 15%, and Caucasians 73% to 21%.
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55% of survey respondents believe the casino will generate hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue for the state and local governments.
The MGM Bridgeport plan for Steelpointe Harbor was first announced on Sept. 18. Supporters say the casino will create 7,000 new jobs and bring in revenue to the state. The plan also includes the development of a workforce training center in New Haven.
“I hope that people will pay attention, will say wait a minute. This can be one of the engines that drives the new Connecticut economy with thousands of jobs, millions, tens of millions, hundreds of millions of dollars for the state,” said Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim.
The State of Connecticut currently has a revenue sharing agreement with Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods and stands to lose 500-million dollars if the MGM Casino plan goes forward. Mayor Ganim says it is up to MGM to convince legislators they should approve the plan.
“Their job is how fast can they get up to Hartford, deal with the challenges that Hartford has now, address those so people can recognize, to use a term that I guess would apply to casinos, it’s a win, win, win for all,” said Ganim.