Live! Casino Philadelphia Funds $2 Million for Traffic Project

Live! Casino Hotel Philadelphia, operated by Cordish Companies, has agreed to contribute $2 million towards constructing a new on-ramp at Interstate 76 and 7th Street in Philadelphia's Stadium District. This contribution resolves a decade-old dispute between the casino and state authorities. The new ramp aims to alleviate traffic congestion during events at local venues like Citizens Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field.

Agreement with Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) approved a Consent Agreement with Stadium Casino RE, LLC, the parent of Live! Philadelphia, on July 22, 2026. The agreement requires the casino to fund this infrastructure project, improving access to I-76 during events. The current nearest ramp is at S. Broad Street, and the new on-ramp at 7th Street will facilitate smoother traffic flow.

Live! Casino's Initial Commitment

When Cordish Companies won the bid to develop the Philadelphia casino, it promised collaboration with the Federal Highway Administration, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) for the on-ramp project. Initially, in 2014, the terms required the casino to cover all related costs. However, changing circumstances led to amendments in 2019, reducing their obligation to a guaranteed $1 million.

Increased Financial Commitment

The recent agreement sees Live! Casino doubling its financial commitment to $2 million, payable over five years at $400,000 annually. These funds will come from the casino's Community Benefits Program, ensuring compliance with traffic-related conditions tied to its Category 2 Slot Machine License. The DRPA has transferred the necessary land to PennDOT to facilitate construction.

On-Ramp Project Details

PennDOT estimates the new on-ramp will cost approximately $15 million, with construction starting soon and completion expected by 2028. Once operational, the ramp will accommodate around 800 vehicles per hour, easing pressure on other access points to westbound I-76.