Morning Headlines: Market8 Gets Three Political Endorsements

And other news, this way.

Rendering of Market8.

Rendering of Market8.

Market8 has been endorsed yet again, this time by state and local legislators: Rep. John Taylor, Rep. Michael O’Brien, and Councilman Mark Squilla. They join a line of supporters that includes the Washington West Civic Association and the Philadelphia NAACP.

The casino bidder’s presentation at last month’s hearings before the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board made a stronger impression than those of the other contenders.

From PlanPhilly:

“Weighing all of the presentations, it’s clear the economic opportunities that MARKET8 will bring outweigh those of the other applicants,” said O’Brien, D-Philadelphia, in the press release. “With its Center City location, MARKET8 will be best positioned to draw the most new gaming patrons and spur economic growth on and around East Market Street. Also critically important, MARKET8 will drive more business to the Pennsylvania Convention Center – generating additional major conventions and therefore more revenue for the State and the City.”

Market8 got additional points for their promise to give an annual minimum sum of $2 million back to the community, as well as its gambler rewards program.

Squilla, O’Brien, Taylor: Market8 best chance for revenue, economic growth [PlanPhilly]

In the meantime, more news this way…

Drexel’s $13M renovation brings entire division back to campus [Philadelphia Business Journal]

Camden City Council acts to boost development [Inquirer]

Planners OK WP Realty projects for Wynnewood Road; moves to board of commissioners for review [Main Line Times]

WP Realty official involved in new Whole Foods development to be sentenced for tax evasion charges [Main Line Times]

Former Pearl Art Supply Building To Be Reborn As Artist Studios [Naked Philly]

Immaculata to kick off new campus housing construction [Philly.com]