University
Against Slot Casino
As reported by the Pittsburgh
Post-Gazette: "Duquesne University would
like nothing more than to see a new arena built
for the Penguins, but not if it means putting
a slot machine casino at its doorstep.
"Concerned
about the welfare of its students, the university
announced yesterday it would oppose the proposal
by Isle of Capri Casinos Inc. and the Penguins
to build a casino near Mellon Arena. In exchange
for the license, Isle of Capri is pledging $290
million for an arena.
"The
university has sent letters to the state Gaming
Control Board, which will award the Pittsburgh
slot machine license, and to some state and
city politicians voicing its concerns about
having a casino so close to its 10,000 students,
about a third of whom live on the Bluff or in
nearby off-campus housing.
"Duquesne
President Charles J. Dougherty said the proposed
casino, which would be built near Mellon Arena,
would be located only two blocks from campus,
providing easy access to students.
"…Mr.
Dougherty said the university supports a new
arena for the Penguins as well as the proposed
office and residential redevelopment in the
lower Hill that is part of the Isle of Capri
proposal.
"…Mr.
Dougherty said the decision to oppose the casino
was an administrative one and was done without
consulting students…"
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