Collide Magazine

Mohegan Sun Plans Big Expansion

Mohegan Sun Casino is seriously considering establishing another hotel in its bid for a big expansion. This, despite the fact that hotels in the region are facing a challenge in filling their rooms.

Mohegan Sun President and Chief Executive Officer, Mitchell Etess, has disclosed to the media they now have an architect working on a master plan for the next establishment.

"We know for sure the demand for hotel rooms exceeds the supply," Etess said, adding, "We need more hotel rooms."

However, Etess admitted they are not quite sure on the details of the expansion and how future developments would progress from here. Mohegan's most recent expansion was the $1 billion Project Sunburst, which was completed in 2002.

Meanwhile, Mystic Coast and Country President, Chris Jennings, has told the media that research indicates hotels are clearly not reaching capacity. "The numbers haven't been there," Jennings said.

However, casinos offer a different story. For instance, the monthly travel index shows casino visitors increase consistently and impressively at that, Jennings said.

"The region is obviously still poised for growth. I think that's pretty evident when you see people coming in with plans for new shopping malls and hotels," Jennings said. "They can't do that without some understanding of the market."