Most Popular Videos Featured On KDKA.com
Jun 24, 2008 6:39 pm US/Eastern
Casino Financing In Question, Some Workers Walk
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ―
-
-
Construction is underway for the Majestic Star Casino on the North Shore.
KDKA
KDKA has learned there's been a serious setback for the construction of Pittsburgh's first slots casino.
Some workers have walked off the job complaining that they are not being paid.
It is just the latest problem for developer Don Barden, who is struggling to secure the financing needed for the Majestic Star.
Now, Barden faces an angry group of workers.
It is a furious struggle by Barden to secure funding for the Majestic Star and now KDKA has learned Barden is $150 million short.
However, Barden is optimistic but not certain he will get it.
Meanwhile, sources tell KDKA that Barden has met with the contractors and told them that he's out of money, that he can't pay them and he asked them to hang in there.
Barden told the contractors he will meet with them again on June 30.
Sources say the primary contractor has made a commitment to stay for now but several others have already walked off the job.
The Majestic Star Casino construction project underway on the North Shore is a $750-million project.
It's been plagued by financing problems with Barden still trying to secure financing.
Sources close to the project indicate Governor Ed Rendell is concerned about the financing as well.
Contacted in Harrisburg, State Senator Jay Costa who has been front and center in the issues involving Barden's financing.
Costa added, "It's my understanding a commitment has been made by the primary contractor, Keating Building Corporation, to continue operation of the construction of the facility... and within the next ten days, a financing plan will be put to rest on way or another".
Barden was unavailable for comment.
He told KDKA in April that the money will be there.
State Senator Costa says he is convinced that negative publicity has hurt the process but he remains optimistic Barden will get the financing he needs in the next ten days.
Stay with KDKA for more information.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
Local Highway To Be Renamed I-376
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
