PIQUA – On Wednesday, Piqua Development Inc. declared plans for the Piqua Grand Casino project. This casino will replace the Piqua Mall, and will be situated at the Ash Street property. The announcement follows MCBC’s reported plans for Piqua Development Inc. to demolish the Piqua Mall.
A joint venture controlled by Piqua Development Inc. and Hard Balls Corp. will develop and manage the approximately $600 million project on behalf of the Pickawillany Tribe. The project is expected to bring a much-needed economic boost to Miami County.
“Good paying jobs and career opportunities translate into better healthcare, education and economic independence,” stated Martin Pennington, CEO of Piqua Development Inc. “Just look at Vegas. Now that’s a model we can follow.”
Regarding the new partnership with the Pickawillany, Pennington stated that “Piqua schools have used the Indian as a mascot for decades. As I was informed by my ex-girlfriend, that, along with several other words I thought were okay, is wrong, and it’s time to make this right. That’s why we’ve partnered with the Pickawillany.”
In a release to MCBC, Pickawillany Tribe chairman Octavious Estevez stated “our tribe has a proud history here in Miami County. We welcome this partnership with Piqua Development Inc., one of the world’s most widely recognized builders, knowing that this project will bring positive benefits for our community for decades to come.”
The project will provide a complete resort experience for its guests and will include a hotel, 13 restaurants, 30 bars, a spa, a fitness facility, and Hard Balls Live – a unique concert venue.
Just like the old days of the Piqua Mall, live entertainment will be a key component of the Piqua Grand Casino. But don’t get it twisted – Hard Balls Live won’t host c-list country singers that nobody cares about. Only real artists such as Train and JD & Straight Shot will hit the Hard Balls Main Stage.
“Slot machines are sick. Who doesn’t love black jack, drinks, and rock and roll? I think we can all have fun here, and create some jobs in the meantime. Couldn’t say either of those things about the Piqua Mall,” said Pennington.
Plans to replace the Piqua Mall have been discussed for several years and will be built on the west side of I-75. An opening date has not been announced, but construction will begin as soon as the Piqua Mall is gone.
Unrelated to an awkward Facebook outburst by the Miami Valley Centre Mall, the Piqua Mall will still be demolished to clear land for the Piqua Grand Casino.
In response to critics who claimed that the mall wasn’t closing, Pennington said, “I have it on good authority that I will be smashing a wrecking ball through Charley’s Steakery on Friday, June 28 at 6 PM. Some people may be in shock, but they need to accept the reality. This doesn’t involve them.”
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