The opening of the Hollywood Casino in San Diego’s backcountry appears to be imminent, at least judging from California Department of Transportation (Cal Trans) electronic signs along State Route 94 warning of “an event” near the town of Jamul.
It’s hard to get a grip on when this “event” may take place since Cal Trans has changed the date on the signs several times, generally pushing them back.
The tribal website continues to say that the casino will open its doors in “mid-2016.”
This is frustrating to the Jamul Action Committee, opponents of the casino, who would like to be able to post protesters outside of the casino when it’s set to open.
That organization’s President Glenn Revell told CW6 last week, “The original sign said I think August 5th to 22nd, now I’m seeing signs saying the 29th to 31st.” He remains convinced how that it will open. “I believe it will open, I have almost no doubt about that, but I think ultimately it will be forced to close.”
Revell is pinning his hopes on two lawsuits that are now before the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals that challenges the legitimacy of the tribe. He believes either of those court challenges could cause the casino to close—even if it’s already open.
“At the outset, we asked them please don’t build until the court decides. I really do feel for anyone who’s an investor in Penn if we built this only to be told by the court it’s closed that’s a big loss.” The “Penn” he refers to is Penn National Gaming, which is building the casino and will manage it for the tribe.
