A view of the gaming floor at the new Hollywood Casino Jamul in Jamul, California.
Photo by Karen Beth Pearlman
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The Jamul Indian Village opened its long-awaited casino in southern California on Monday.
The Hollywood Casino
Jamul is the closest tribal gaming facility to downtown San Diego. It
was developed in partnership with Penn National Gaming.
"Our dream is finally becoming a reality,” Chairwoman Erica Pinto said in a press release. “I am so grateful for everyone who has helped make this possible for our people, including current and previous Tribal Councils of Jamul Indian Village, our developers Penn National Gaming and the many professionals we’ve had the pleasure of working with along the way.”
According to news reports, the opening led to huge traffic jams throughout the day. Although the casino is only about 20 miles from San Diego, the roads near the reservation consist mainly of two-laners.
The tribe has pledged $23 million for road and transportation improvements near the casino, Pinto said. Another $90 million will go to fire, law enforcement and other public safety eefforts.
“The tribe maintains a longstanding commitment to the community,” Pinto said. “We are proud to fund roadway improvements and other essential services to make our community safer. These efforts are meaningful and important for our tribe and our neighbors.”
Read More on the Story:
Casino grand opening in Jamul causes traffic jam
(The San Diego Union-Tribune 10/10)
Hollywood Casino opens causing traffic delays along SR-94
(CBS News 10/10)
Major Jam on Route 94 as Hollywood Casino Opens in Jamul
(The Times of San Diego 10/10)
Traffic delays on SR-94 could continue following opening of Hollywood Casino
(City News Service 10/11)
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