The arrival of Harrah's in Chester will creat new problems like traffic congestion but it's impact so far, aside from all of the construction jobs has been the rising property values.
Many former slum owners have sold out and the properties have been leveled and planted with grass along the main acess road, Morton Ave. This would be to entice drive up businesses to locate there thereby creating jobs of which many would be local residents.
Chester city is also getting a good cut of the gambling proceeds from horse betting starting Sept 9 and in the future from the slots that will open in Feb. BTW, the state is getting .56 of every wagered dollar off the slots!
Anyhow, Chester has been on the upswing the past 5 years. I have worked in Chester, 2 blocks from Chester Downs for 8 years and have really noticed a difference lately but the city is far from perfect for sure. I do not see it returning to the state it was in 10 years ago when you heard the popping of guns during the day. Violent and petty crime is down considerably.
There will be those people that become addicted to gambling but most in the region that are, are already and have no isssue with driving to Atlantic City or to Delaware to feed their disease.
Anyhow, end of rant.
I believe it can overall only have a good effect on a city that really needs it.
Dave
