NATCHEZ, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
One can get a feel for what Magnolia Bluffs Casino in Natchez will look like.
Pipes are on the ground and the wooden exterior will have an old saw mill look, plus a view of the Mississippi River.
"We're gonna have a great, obviously, you know foot print as far as our casino floor and our restaurants and the view is just spectacular where we are at. So, we really think that all in all the market is mature," explains President of Premier Gaming Group, Kevin Preston
Premier will own and operate the casino, which will feature two restaurants as well.
A parking deck will be located on-site near the casino. Preston also says as part of an agreement with the city, the gaming group will build an outdoor public park to host concerts and other events.
Premier Gaming Group leases the land from the city, which could rake in as much as $2.5 million a year from the casino.
Preston believes the business is a winning proposition, despite declining casino revenues in the state.
"We just think it's an under served market. You know, we've operated before in Baton Rouge and in Vicksburg, and we know that there were customers going else where to gamble. And, we think that with a first class facility like ours, we're going to be able to attract a lot of those people to stay here locally and play."
More than 4,000 applicants are betting they will land one of the 284 available jobs.
Despite the slim margin, many remain optimistic.
"Well, I'm privileged to be working now but it won't hurt to try something else too if you can, more money," says applicant Esperanda Hunt of Natchez.
"I've been actually searching for several months now and it's very challenging, but I'm very optimistic. And, I just love the community, and I think this was a great venture on their part," says Emanuel Smith, who just moved home to nearby Ferriday, Louisiana to take care of his mother.
The $45 million casino project is expected to be completed December 21st.
A second job fair will be held at the Natchez Community Center on Saturday (August 18th) from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Copyright 2012 WLBT. All rights reserved.
WLBT 3 - Fox 40
