Lawyer: Pa. racetrack casino could die if deadlines remain

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — An investor in a proposed Pennsylvania racetrack casino says the project could die if state regulators enforce recently imposed deadlines.

The state Harness Racing Commission in October approved a racing-license transfer for the proposed Lawrence Downs Casino and Racing Resort about 50 miles northwest of Pittsburgh.

Joseph Procacci, owner of a Philadelphia-based produce supplier, and his investors bought the project from a group of businessmen in September. He has plans to build the casino for $210 million.

Procacci’s lawyer tells The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review that Procacci will likely end the project if Harness Racing Commissioner Jonathan Newman doesn’t rescind strict deadlines he’s imposed. Those deadlines include breaking ground and completing 25 percent of construction by October 2016.

Newman said failing to meet such deadlines would result in losing the racing license.