Mohegan Sun Announces Retail Expansion Plans

By Dirk Langeveld 

Mohegan Sun Casino announced plans to add 200,000 square feet of retail shopping and entertainment space to its Montville campus.

The development, entitled "The Downtown District," is expected to open in 2015. Construction is slated to begin later this year.

“As the owners and operators of Mohegan Sun, the Tribal Council is extremely excited about bringing this new development to our reservation,” said Bruce “Two Dogs” Bozsum, chairman of the Mohegan Tribe, in a statement. “In tune with the original vision of Chief Ralph Sturges when he conceived of Mohegan Sun, it will continue our mission to serve as a job builder for the residents of our region, and bring social improvements to the community at large.”

A key component of the expansion, to be located adjacent to the Winter Garage, is a promenade of retail stores. This will include a "PopNShop," or store that will change on a monthly basis to accomodate trunk shows and other specials.

A "Taste of New England Gourmet Hall" will feature a large barn style architecture and host artisan food vendors from throughout New England. The pavilion will also be the site of special events such as farmers' markets and harvest festivals.

The development will also include a 55,000-square-foot Marquee Cinemas movie theater with 14 screens, a 20,000-square-foot bowling alley operated by The Lyons Group of Boston. 

The project is being developed with The Bronson Companies - which is based in Beverly Hills, Calif. - and The Hampshire Companies, which is headquartered in Morristown, N.J. 

The $50 million development will add 50 stores and create 500 jobs, including temporary construction work, according to The Bulletin.

“We are excited to be adding The Downtown District to Mohegan Sun here in Connecticut, as these attractions and brand names will add yet another layer to the already existing excitement and overall experience,” said Mitchell Etess, chief executive officer for the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority. “The project is moving along nicely with financing already in place and tenant interest is strong.”
1 Comment  Recommend