Wynn Resorts Stops Development Plans on the Encore Boston Harbor in Everett

Wynn Resorts has put a pause on developments across the Encore Boston Harbor in Everett. The development includes restaurants, an entertainment venue and a parking garage. This sudden cessation is attributed to the need to re-evaluate development plans.

According to a statement made by Chief of Community Affairs of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, Joe Delaney, casino officials need to assess if the plan utilizes the site to the fullest. The officials are also expected to declare whether the site, which is set right across from Encore is going to be part of the establishment or not.

The project will most likely be complete by 2024. The first phase of the development begins along Broadway in Everett.

Delaney insists that the project is still well on its way, but a local public hearing process is on hold until the casino officials develop a more concrete plan, with a way forward.

The Initial Development Plan

The initial development plan contains details such as 1,800 seats in the entertainment venue, a massive garage with 2,200 parking spaces, and a restaurant space covering an area of 20,000 square feet.

One of the factors influencing re-evaluation is the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with issues springing up in the development itself. The pandemic has led the officials to look in a different direction, with great considerations for the future.

It is expected that the casino officials, together with the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, will draft an even better development plan. Encore officials indicate that they will proceed with planning alongside the Everett Planning Board and other parties to ensure the project comes to fruition.

A New Lower Broadway Entertainment District

The site in question has true potential that has not been put to good use before. By establishing this major project, Wynn Resorts will transform the area into an entertainment district. With a 2.6-billion-dollar casino in the area, little effort is needed to transform Everett into a pinnacle of entertainment.

Although Wynn Resorts has had a tough couple of months since its distancing from Wynn Macau and junket operations, this project presents a new start and an addition to the many projects under the resorts’ belt.

The permitting process will proceed once everyone is on board about whether the project will be a part of Encore’s gaming establishment footprint. This decision will also determine the power the Gaming Commission and the state’s gaming law will have over the new project.

Construction Timelines

Involved parties predict that construction will start this year. Development plans are still with the Everett Planning Department, awaiting a more solid proposal with minor or major changes to the initial plan.

The anticipated development is just the start of the vision by Wynn Resorts to transform the area along Broadway.