Name of New Gaming Property in New Hampshire Revealed

By Jane Shaw Senior Editor Updated: 07/17/2024

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New Gaming Property in New Hampshire

A new casino development at the Pheasant Lane Mall in Nashua has officially been named The Nash Casino. The name was recently unveiled by ECL Entertainment, the Las Vegas-based gaming company that has been spearheading the project alongside Clairvest, a Toronto-based private equity firm.

ECL Entertainment is known for owning and operating venues such as the Mint Casino at Kentucky Downs. The company partnered with Clairvest to transform the 180,000-square-foot space formerly occupied by Sears into a state-of-the-art gaming facility. The site has been vacant since 2020, and its transformation marks an important redevelopment effort in the region.

What the Facility will Offer

The Nash Casino is set to feature over 1,000 historic horse racing machines and dozens of table games, providing a wide array of gaming options for patrons. The casino’s interior design and gaming layout aim to create an exciting and vibrant atmosphere for visitors. The opening is scheduled for next winter, and it is set to enhance the entertainment options in the area.

As a charitable casino, The Nash Casino has committed to directing 35 percent of its profits to local nonprofits. This initiative is expected to generate approximately $24 million annually, benefiting more than one hundred nonprofit organizations in the area. This aspect of the project has gained a lot of support from the community, highlighting the casino’s potential positive impact on local charitable efforts.

In terms of employment, The Nash Casino is set to create between 500 and 600 jobs. The positions will range from gaming operations to hospitality roles, providing a vital boost to the local job market. The new employment opportunities are seen as a welcome development for the area by many locals.

Opposition Surrounding the Casino

Despite the excitement surrounding the project, the casino has faced opposition and controversy. Some residents have expressed concerns about the casino’s impact on local infrastructure and emergency services.

One local resident said,

I think a casino, while it can help bring in revenue and help nonprofits, it might not be the direction I want to see Nashua heading.

A particular point of concern is the fact that the entire parking area for the casino is located in Tyngsborough, Massachusetts, rather than in New Hampshire. This has raised questions about jurisdiction and the ability of local police to respond effectively to emergencies.

There are also worries about how the presence of a casino will impact the existing tenants of the Pheasant Lane Mall. Some community members fear that the casino’s operation may clash with the mall’s current retail environment, potentially leading to disruptions and changes in the mall’s atmosphere.

Despite these concerns, the developers remain optimistic about the project’s potential to rejuvenate the area and provide a significant economic boost. The Nash Casino is expected to attract visitors from both New Hampshire and Massachusetts, thanks to its location.

Officials said that in the run-up to the opening date, the community and developers will continue to address concerns and work toward ensuring that The Nash Casino becomes a successful and positive addition to the area.