A brief program will precede the Encore Boston Harbor ribbon cutting on Sunday morning, June 23, but organizers plan to move quickly and welcome the public inside.
The casino’s official public opening takes place at 10 a.m. Sunday, June 23, with a short celebration program starting at 9:30 a.m. After seven years of speeches and planning discussions surrounding Encore, the emphasis will be on expediting entry into the facility.
Elected officials representing the City and state are anticipated to attend, alongside company executives from around the globe. The opening morning will also draw substantial media coverage.
While a few modest surprises are planned, the primary focus remains getting visitors through the doors.
An extensive transportation strategy will be implemented early that day, with State Police, Everett Police, Boston Police, Medford Police and Chelsea Police officers working forced overtime to manage traffic on roads leading to and from the Encore casino.
Encore transportation executives, MBTA representatives and law enforcement have coordinated the opening plan through months of meetings. The plan maintains flexibility, allowing executives to adjust vehicle routing in real time if necessary.
Encore will encourage shuttle use from Wellington and Malden Center Stations, the Neighborhood Runner serving Everett and Chelsea, and Harbor water shuttles. For visitors traveling from distant areas, Encore buses are the recommended option, with depots positioned north, south and west of Greater Boston.
On-site parking costs $22 for six hours, $42 for 24 hours, and $49 for 24-hour valet service. Red Card holders can apply one COMPDOLLAR toward on-site parking as part of the grand opening promotion.
Once the casino opens, the State Police Gaming Enforcement Unit’s Encore deployment will maintain safety and security. Commanded by State Police Lt Timothy Babbin and composed of MSP Troopers and Everett Police Officers, the unit’s members will enforce regulations inside and outside the casino, serving as first responders to emergencies on casino property and investigating potential criminal activity. Private security directed by retired Massachusetts State Police Special Operations commander Richard Prior supplements State Police personnel on the casino floor.
The Troopers and Officers have completed training in casino security and policing best practices, a spokesman noted. The Gaming Enforcement Unit, under the overall command of Detective Lt. Brian Connors, receives full support from Massachusetts State Police resources as needed.