Casino plans dropped

MGM Resorts International recently ditched their plan to build a resort-style casino in Brimfield. The main problems were rooted down to the fact that it would be too complicated to pursue a project in a small, rural community.

“The unique nature of MGM’s plans for an all-inclusive world-class resort of the Brimfield site, and our growing understanding of the needed scope for its infrastructure, simply do not allow us to pursue the comprehensive MGM resort originally envisioned here,” said Bill Hornbuckle, the company’s chief marketing officer.

In Tuesday’s statement, Hornbuckle thanked Brimfield residents and town officials — including those who opposed the idea — for extending a friendly reception to the company as it debated whether to pursue the project.

“The willingness of residents to listen to our thoughts and openly share their concerns has been of critical importance to MGM in reaching this decision,” he said.

MGM had announced earlier this year that it had signed a contract with Rolling Hills Estates Realty Trust to buy 150 acres of undeveloped land in the town about 65 miles west of Boston.

MGM would pursue “other potential development sites” in the western part of the state, Hornbuckle said. Further locations have not yet been identified.