African American leaders back Market 8 casino proposal for Philly

The African-American Chamber of Commerce and the Philadelphia NAACP are endorsing one of the plans for Philadelphia’s second casino license: the Market 8 proposal at Eight and Market streets.

The plan, developed by the Goldenberg Group and including prominent African-American investors, is one of five in the running.

“This program envisioned by Market 8 and those that put it together have done an excellent job of addressing the issues that prevent groups of color from achieving economic success,” said NAACP President Jerry Mondesire.

The Urban Affairs Coalition and Urban League said the casino planners have agreed to partner on minority training and hiring.

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“We look forward to continuing to support Market 8’s goals of becoming a national model of transformative economic development,” said Urban League President Pat Coulter.

Five groups are bidding for the gaming license. Wynn Resorts withdrew its proposal last week, saying it was concerned about the project’s economic viability.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board will select the winner.

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