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Happy Valley Casino, set to open in spring 2026, has sparked heated debate in College Township over its potential economic and social impacts. Residents, officials, and stakeholders are weighing its economic benefits against potential negative social effects.
The College Township Council commissioned a local impact study earlier this year, receiving the report last week. The report projects substantial economic benefits for the local community but also acknowledges potential social risks and recommends proactive, responsible gambling measures.
Data-driven deep dive into Happy Valley Casino’s impact studies
This is the second local impact study for Happy Valley Casino. An earlier study, conducted in 2021 by Econsult Solutions Inc. (ESI) and commissioned by the casino’s developer, SC Gaming Co., led by investor and former Penn State trustee Ira Lubert, was criticized on two grounds.
- First, critics argued it relied on limited data, rendering its findings inconclusive.
- Second, it failed to address the negative social impacts of gambling on local communities.
As a result, the council commissioned a new study in April, hiring New Orleans-based Convergence Strategy Group (CSG) to conduct it.
During the report’s presentation, Assistant Township Manager Mike Bloom said, “The intent of this analysis is to provide the council, staff, and future councils and staff with data and better information to inform the development of policies, programs, and projects that mitigate negative impacts associated with being the host community while maximizing benefits.”
CSG analyzed data from communities surrounding the 17 casinos in Pennsylvania, with a focus on the four Category 4 casinos. The report projected economic benefits slightly lower than those in the earlier developer-funded study but anticipated minimal negative social and public safety effects.
PA casino projects financial surge for College Township
Happy Valley Casino is expected to bring significant financial benefits to the township and county. The report projects it will:
- Attract approximately 605,000 visitors.
- Generate $66.1 million in revenue during its first year of operation.
- Rising to about 625,500 visitors and $71.8 million by the fifth year.
Consequently, College Township and the county are expected to collect about $1.2 million in gaming taxes in the first year, increasing to approximately $1.5 million by the 10th year. The State College Area School District is projected to gain between $540,000 and $560,000 in additional earned income, real estate, and local services tax revenue.
The casino will also create about 350 direct jobs with an average annual salary of $47,000. Additionally, it is expected to generate four indirect jobs in the township and approximately 52 more across the county.
“It hasn’t been about the revenue for the township,” said Council Member Rich Francke, according to a news story by StateCollege.com. Affirming this sentiment, CSG co-principal Scott Fisher noted, “We believe the casino has the potential to stimulate vitality in the mall itself.”
Addressing addiction and responsible gambling in the casino era
The report highlighted potential concerns, including problem gambling, public safety, financial strain, and mental health. However, it noted that these issues are unlikely to become severe, as the casino does not introduce gambling to the region; residents can already gamble at online casinos, at bars, and through other platforms.
To minimize negative effects, the report recommended proactive responsible gambling measures, such as visible signage and educational outreach to raise awareness about problem gambling, as well as self-exclusion programs and accessible treatment for gambling addiction.
Features and plans for Pennsylvania’s Happy Valley Casino
Happy Valley Casino, a Category 4 casino, is scheduled to open in spring 2026 at the Nittany Mall. It will feature 600 slot machines and 30 table games but no sportsbook, with potential plans for expansion. Category 4 casinos are permitted to offer up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, and a sportsbook. The casino will also include a sports bar and a restaurant.
