In what could potentially have been a major shift for the East Concord area, developers were reportedly considering plans to build a housing development on the site where state Senator Andy Sanborn now hopes to build a casino.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the developers had been in talks with local officials and community members about the possibility of constructing a residential complex on the property. The proposed development would have included a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, as well as amenities such as parks, walking trails, and a community center.
However, those plans were put on hold when Sanborn, a Republican state senator from Bedford, announced his intention to introduce legislation that would authorize the construction of a casino on the site. Sanborn’s proposal has generated significant controversy, with opponents raising concerns about the potential negative impacts of a casino on the surrounding community.
Despite the opposition, Sanborn has remained steadfast in his support for the project, arguing that a casino would bring much-needed jobs and revenue to East Concord. He has also emphasized the economic benefits that such a development could bring to the area, pointing to the success of other casinos in New Hampshire and neighboring states.
In response to Sanborn’s proposal, the developers who had been considering the housing project have reportedly shifted their focus to other potential sites in the area. While no specific details have been released, sources indicate that the developers are exploring a number of different options, including properties in neighboring towns and cities.
As the debate over the future of the East Concord site continues to unfold, many residents and community leaders remain divided on the issue. Some are cautiously optimistic about the potential benefits of a casino, while others are concerned about the potential social and economic consequences of such a development.
In the meantime, local officials have indicated that they will be closely monitoring the situation and considering all options moving forward. Ultimately, the fate of the East Concord site remains uncertain, with both supporters and opponents of the casino proposal eagerly awaiting further developments.