ORLANDO, Fla.—Hard Rock International announced their submittal of an application and a $400,000 non-refundable application fee to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission for the development of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino New England to be located in West Springfield, Mass., on the campus of Eastern States Exposition (ESE). The single-phased resort property would be created on a dedicated 38-acre area of the ESE’s eastern parcel.
“We’re thrilled to be working with ESE, who brings years of experience in the entertainment business and the most desired location to our company and brand. With 38 acres to develop, the project allows us to build today and grow tomorrow,” said Jim Allen , chairman of Hard Rock International. “We’re proud to announce this project and concurrently submit our application. We are confident that together, with ESE, the Town of West Springfield and neighboring Western Massachusetts communities, the new resort will positively impact the State’s economy and redefine the entertainment experience in Massachusetts.”
The proposed hotel and casino will be designed to create a destination resort casino property that utilizes a mix of non-gaming and gaming amenities with a hotel of 400-500 rooms. The resrot will feature a Rock Spa and tropical, indoor pool deck; an approximately 200,000-square foot casino with 100-125 table games and 2,500-3,000 slot machines; and a Hard Rock Cafe with food and live music . The resort also is anticipated to incorporate a live music venue, a permanent music memorabilia exhibition, a facility with meeting space and a destination retail/dining galleria of approximately 150,000 square feet.
“Eastern States Exposition is proud to welcome Hard Rock as a neighbor and partner to the Western Massachusetts community and we’re confident the brand will complement our core values, offering exceptional entertainment and a commitment to philanthropic efforts,” related Eugene Cassidy , ESE’s chief executive officer. “For nearly 100 years, our special property along Memorial Avenue has offered entertainment to millions, business and employment opportunities to thousands and a wonderful experience for all of New England. This new evolution of entertainment with Hard Rock will help drive new energy and multiply the economic impact of our organization on our regional community for the next generation and beyond.”
Cassidy added that the arrangement with Hard Rock has been fully completed and that the Board of Directors of Eastern States Exposition, representing all six New England states, unanimously approved the development.
