Philly City Council Clears Way for Gallery Casino
By DAN STAMM
Updated 3:41 PM EST, Fri, Nov 14, 2008
City Council voted unanimously to allow zoning for an entertainment district at the Gallery at Market East in Center City clearing a major hurdle towards a slots parlor opening in Philadelphia.
The Foxwoods Casino cleared the first major roadblock towards opening at 8th and Market Streets. It was originally planed for a riverfront location in South Philly.
The Gallery is a desired location for a casino because of its central location and the public transportation access already in place via SEPTA.
Chinatown neighborhood and faith groups protested the entertainment district zoning because they don't want a gaming center in their neighborhood.
Residents delivered more than 20,000 signatures against the casino project to Mayor Michael Nutter Wednesday. Last week protesters marched to City Hall to try and stop the project.
Asian-American protesters packed council chambers Thursday. As the vote was announced at they shouted "Shame on you."
NBCPhiladelphia.com will posts more details
First Published: Nov 13, 2008 11:34 AM EST
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