A new charitable gaming venue has received approval from Salem, New Hampshire's planning board to operate in a former Lord & Taylor store at The Mall at Rockingham Park. The $160 million Live! Casino project passed with a five-to-two vote.

The planned three-story facility, scheduled to open in 2025, will feature:

• 900 historic racing machines
• 40 gaming tables
• Movie theater
• Sports lounge
• Golf simulators
• Retail shops
• Restaurants and bars
• Live entertainment space

While some local residents raised concerns about traffic, public safety, lighting, and pedestrian impact, the project received significant public support. Salem Town Council Chair Joe Sweeney noted that residents had voted in favor of such a facility ten years ago.

The casino is expected to generate $31 million annually for New Hampshire and approved charities while creating over 700 permanent jobs. Construction is set to begin in early 2024, with potential future plans for a hotel addition. The development team includes Joe Faro, Sal Lupoli, and the Cordish Companies.

In related news, Nashua, New Hampshire, is also preparing to welcome The Nash Casino at Pheasant Lane Mall. This facility will house over 1,000 historic horse race machines and multiple table games in a two-story, 180,000-square-foot former Sears location. ECL Entertainment and Clairvest are leading this development.

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