Atlantic City

In 1976, the citizens of New Jersey voted to legalize casino gambling in Atlantic City. It's instructive to compare the promises made during that campaign to the actual benefits seen in the state 25 years later.

 

Jobs

Promise:  33,690 new jobs in the state by 1985, including 24,600 in casino hotels

Reality: 41,000 people directly employed by the casinos

 

Investments

Promise: $844 million in new construction by 1985 Reality: $3 billion in capital investments by casinos

 

Wages

Promise: $330 million in new wages by 1985 Reality: Annual payroll of $797 million

 

Tax Revenues

Promise: $30.3 million in annual casino tax revenue to benefit senior citizens Reality: $170 million in tax revenue in 1985