In a significant development for Pennsylvania’s gaming industry, SC Gaming has teamed up with Saratoga Casino Holdings to finalize the construction and management of the upcoming casino at the Nittany Mall, located near Penn State University. This collaboration follows the withdrawal of Bally’s Corporation from the project, marking a pivotal shift in the casino’s development trajectory.

Strategic collaboration to enhance gaming experience:

The partnership entails Saratoga Casino Holdings acquiring a majority interest in the new casino upon its completion. Saratoga, known for its operations across New York, Colorado, and Mississippi, brings substantial industry experience to the table. Sam Gerrity, CEO of Saratoga, expressed enthusiasm about joining forces with SC Gaming, highlighting the potential to blend strengths to deliver superior service and an unmatched gaming experience.

The casino, representing a $120 million investment, is slated for completion in early 2026. It promises to offer round-the-clock entertainment with 750 slot machines, 30 table games, sports betting facilities, a sports-themed restaurant and bar, and a diverse food court. Despite facing delays due to legal challenges and public opposition concerning gambling addiction risks and potential crime, the project received the green light from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board in January 2023, with the state Supreme Court dismissing subsequent legal challenges.

The project has stirred mixed reactions among the State College community, with some expressing concerns about its impact on local society and economy. However, Eric Pearson, CEO of SC Gaming, remains optimistic, emphasizing that the casino will serve as a community asset and bolster local economic growth.

In response to community concerns, Pearson engaged in discussions with residents to address their apprehensions, reaffirming the project’s commitment to enhancing the area’s economic landscape without compromising societal values. As StateCollege.com reports, he stated: “After years of delays, we’re overjoyed to be finally moving into active construction. After an intensive and expansive evaluation process, we’ve found the right partner with Saratoga, who shares our core values and a strong focus on guest experience. The pending partnership will help us build a casino the community can be proud of.”

Navigating regulatory hurdles:

As the project moves forward, SC Gaming has submitted a request for corporate restructuring to the Gaming Control Board, a crucial step that precedes the official partnership agreement with Saratoga. According to PGCB spokesman Doug Harbach, this process involves a thorough background check of all new entities and individuals involved, ensuring compliance and integrity in the casino’s operations.

With construction now underway, the casino at Nittany Mall is poised to become a significant entertainment destination in Central Pennsylvania. Both SC Gaming and Saratoga Casino Holdings are committed to creating a venue that not only meets the highest standards of the gaming industry but also respects and enhances the community’s values. As the region anticipates the economic and recreational uplift from the casino, all eyes will be on this ambitious project to see how it shapes the future of State College and its residents.