The plan to expand Philadelphia Park includes a 225,000-square-foot casino with huge vertical video screens, indoor eateries, bars and 4000 slot machines will dominate the new building.
In a year's time, the existing operation has pumped millions of dollars into the local economy. Most of the 540 workers live within ten miles.
A cheer went up from construction workers as they were assured the expansion would be a union job, but that led to an embarrassing moment for the casino. One construction worker questioned working conditions for casino waitresses. He claimed some people had relocated to Bensalem after being promised full time work and health insurance, but instead they were given part time shifts and no benefits.
Casino officials walked away, declining to talk about the accusation. Bensalem officials said they had heard of such complaints before.
The designs were approved in December by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Weeks ago, the Bensalem Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend the project.
