How do you say excitement?

MGM Resorts International can count the ways—first, by opening MGM Springfield ahead of schedule, then by becoming a presence in its Massachusetts home.

The colossal $960 million resort, which covers three city blocks in downtown Springfield, was originally set to launch in September. That debut was then pushed up to August 18.

Igniting a cultural and economic renaissance in the historic New England city, the approximately 2 million-square-foot development, combining new construction with revived historic buildings, offers more than 125,000 square feet of gaming space, a 250-room boutique hotel on Main Street, superior spa services, inspired dining and diverse retail. MGM Springfield also features a

luxury cinema, high-energy bowling complex, seasonal skating rink and outdoor marketplace displaying local art, events and talent.

Employment creates more excitement. MGM has pledged to create 3,000 jobs, with 35 percent of workers drawn from Springfield and 90 percent from the region. That boosts local tax revenue.

The property also salutes the past. The reimagined architecture will include whimsical design elements with tributes to local denizens Dr. Seuss and Emily Dickinson, among others. Historical reminders like a 1925 Edison-Western Union Stock Ticker, a 1915 Springfield-made Telegraphone and an 1895 Edison Home Phonograph will be on display. The company will restore the United Electric lobby with its terrazzo floors, marbled walls and stained-glass dome.

The Friedmutter Group of Las Vegas served as the architect, overseeing the master plan, exterior design, the design of the casino floor and all nightlife and bar spaces. L.A.-based Avenue Interior Design oversaw the development of the hotel lobby and an onsite Italian restaurant, using a palette of warm reds with industrial wood and metal touches. Other details recalling Springfield’s industrial history include exposed concrete-planked ceilings.

Bringing more community attractions was important to MGM Resorts, so a Regal Cinema will bring back movies. An arcade and bowling alley will complement TopGolf Swing Suites, the latest in virtual golf. The South End Market, a shopping mall with more than 40 tenants, will return retail to Springfield. MGM is also working with local attractions such as the Basketball Hall of Fame to spread the wealth through the region. Along with a world-class art collection, MGM is likely to quickly become the biggest attraction in Springfield.

OWNER: MGM Resorts
ARCHITECT: Friedmutter Group
FEATURES: 252 suites, 2,500 slots, 94 table games
INVESTMENT: $960 million