In recent years, the idea of constructing a Major League Soccer (MLS) stadium in Everett, Massachusetts, has gained significant traction. Wynn Resorts, the owner of the prominent Encore Boston Harbor casino, has been working diligently to partner with billionaire Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Revolution, to bring this ambitious project to life. However, there are several challenges to overcome before the dream of a state-of-the-art soccer stadium becomes a reality.
Wynn Resorts made a strategic move in March, acquiring a 45-acre section of the Mystic power plant from Constellation Energy for $25 million. This prime waterfront parcel is located south of the Encore Boston Harbor casino, making it an ideal location for the proposed MLS stadium.
The casino operator envisions a partnership with New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft to develop the site and provide a purpose-built home for the New England Revolution, which Kraft also owns.
This financial success of Encore Boston Harbor casino has laid a solid foundation for Wynn Resorts to expand its operations and invest in new projects, such as the proposed soccer stadium. Since its grand opening in June 2019, the casino has emerged as the dominant player in Massachusetts’ gaming industry, generating over $2.57 billion in gross gaming revenue, leading to substantial tax contributions to the state and local communities.
In addition to the MLS stadium, the company also aims to develop a new sportsbook, poker room and a 979-seat theater. The phased expansion will also include the construction of two additional hotel towers, offering a total of 800 guestrooms. These development stages are estimated to cost around $1.7 billion.
The partnership between Wynn Resorts and the Kraft Group is crucial to the success of the MLS stadium project. Discussions between the two sides regarding the possibility of bringing the team to Everett began as early as 2022.
One of the significant obstacles in the path of the MLS stadium project is the existing zoning restrictions on the land. The 45-acre site falls within a Designated Port Area, a state-regulated zone primarily intended for industrial purposes. To move forward with the construction of the stadium, Wynn and Kraft must navigate the complex process of rezoning the property. This requires the approval of either state lawmakers or state regulators to lift the industrial restriction and allow for nonindustrial uses.
To expedite the rezoning process, Wynn Resorts and Everett officials are working to garner support from state lawmakers. Last summer, the state House of Representatives approved language in an economic development bill that aimed to lift the industrial restrictions on the Mystic power plant site. Unfortunately, the Senate did not agree, leading to the setback of the project. However, proponents of the stadium plan are determined to renew their efforts and secure the necessary legislative backing to move the project forward.
While the quest for an MLS stadium in Everett has garnered excitement and support, it is not without its critics. Environmentalists, in particular, are calling for a thorough review of the environmental impacts associated with rezoning the contaminated power plant site for commercial use. The Mystic Generating Station, located adjacent to the proposed stadium site, is one of the state’s most polluting power stations.
Key stakeholders, including environmental advocates, have stressed the importance of public involvement and scrutiny in the decision-making process. The Conservation Law Foundation, for instance, has raised concerns about potential backroom deals that may favor specific parties, such as the Kraft Group. They argue that any decision regarding the highest and best use of the power plant site should be made through an inclusive process that weighs various industrial opportunities, invites public feedback, and implements enforceable measures to address potential negative impacts.
Despite the challenges and differing opinions surrounding the MLS stadium project, Mayor Carlo DeMaria remains committed to revitalizing the waterfront parcel and transforming it into a thriving public space. In addition to the economic opportunities the stadium would bring, Mayor DeMaria envisions a publicly-accessible waterfront that offers recreational spaces and walking paths for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike. It is essential to strike a balance between development and environmental considerations, ensuring that the future of Everett aligns with the community’s vision.
