Hank Silverberg, wtop.com
GETTYSBURG, Pa. - A key decision on a casino in Gettysburg is coming in Pennsylvania this week, which could have a major impact on tourism in the Mid-Atlantic region.
On
A new survey, done by Mason-Dixon polling, shows the plan is not popular, with 66 percent of Pennsylvania residents against it, and 60 percent in favor of legislation to block similar proposals in the future.
"This is not the first time we've heard from lots of Americans that this is just a terrible idea," says Mary Koik, from the Civil War Preservation Trust, which has been opposing the casino.
The battlefield is a major regional tourist attraction, just a few miles from the Maryland border. A big boost in visitors is expected over the next few years as the 150th anniversary of the war is commemorated.
Preservationists say a casino near the country's most popular battlefield site could have a negative impact on the experience, which would discourage tourists.
More poll results:
QUESTION: A group of investors has proposed a casino complex with slots and table games less than one mile from Gettysburg National Military Park. Do you support or oppose building a casino near the National Park?
QUESTION: Legislation that would prevent the establishment of a casino near the Gettysburg Battlefield was recently introduced in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. Do you support or oppose this legislation?
QUESTION: Would you consider a casino within a mile of Gettysburg National Military Park to be an embarrassment to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, or not?
QUESTION: Do you believe that the Gettysburg Battlefield and other tourist sites in Pennsylvania are valuable economic resources for the community, or not?
The poll, taken April 4-6 has a margin of error of +/-4%
Follow Hank on Twitter.
(Copyright 2011 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|