Public Input Sought On Encore's Proposed Entertainment District

EVERETT, MA — The Massachusetts Gaming Commission will hear public input on Encore Boston Harbor's proposed entertainment district across the street from its casino in Everett.

The proposal calls for 20,000 square feet of retail space, about 800 hotel rooms, 50,000 square feet of restaurant space, a parking garage with more than 2,300 spaces, a warehouse, green space and a 999-seat concert venue.

The inclusion of a concert hall has received pushback from some local officials, who fear it could compete with smaller businesses like the Chevalier Theatre in Medford. The Medford City Council voted unanimously earlier this month to oppose the project in a letter to the gaming commission.

Meanwhile, Encore maintains it is trying to revitalize the industrial area around the casino, and the company says the plan is in line with its Surrounding Community Agreements with neighboring cities.

The developer’s presentation and legal analysis is posted for viewing on the gaming commission’s website here and here.

How to provide comment:

1. Attend the public hearing (conference call). Dial: 1-646-741-5292. When promoted, enter this participant code/meeting ID: 111 553 1438

2. Email written comments in advance of the public hearing. Email MGCcomments@massgaming.gov with "Encore Broadway Development" in the subject line. Written comments must be received by 5 p.m .on Friday, February 25th.

Full meeting notice from the MA Gaming Commission:

Monday, February 28, 2022

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. via Conference Call

CALL-IN NUMBER: 1-646-741-5292

PARTICIPANT CODE/MEETING ID: 111 553 1438

MEETING/HEARING AGENDA:

1. Call to Order
2. Public Input
3. Other Business – Reserved for matters the Chair did not reasonably anticipate at the time of posting.