UDA executive director clarifies agreement tied to potential Macon Mall casino

Project remains dependent on changes to Georgia gambling law, according to Macon-Bibb leaders.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Macon-Bibb County Urban Development Authority recently signed a letter of intent that could eventually lead to a casino and hotel development at the Macon Mall.  

UDA executive director Alex Morrison says this project idea came about when the mall was first donated to the authority. He says Macon-Bibb County knew there was something needed to attract more visitors to that area.  

“So that’s why you have things like pickleball and the amphitheater and then rounding that out being a hotel,” he said. “The casino aspect of it is just a furtherance of that hospitality and large assembly component of the project.”

Right now,  casino gambling is illegal in Georgia. Morrison says any project would depend on future changes to Georgia law. 

“It’ll be a key component in GLPI (Gaming & Leisure Properties, INC) exercising the option, is that state law changes,” he said. “So, this will not be a Macon decision; that will be a statewide decision.”

Under this agreement, GLPI will be investing close to $2.5 million to demolish the vacant JC Penney building, for the casino and hotel. 

“We were always going to demolish the JC Penney when the development pressure got there,” he said. “So, this is a way they will pay to demolish that, cure the sight, make it attractive, and then exercise that option; being gaming become legal, so it’s kind of a win win.”

Macon-Bibb County District 9 commissioner Brendalyn Bailey says she believes this new project could bring excitement back to the shopping center. 

“We’re going to be ready,” she said. “We’re going to go in; we are going to build and reconstruct. And we’re going to build a Macon Mall that’s competitive with other malls in the area. A Macon Mall we can be proud of, one that our teenagers can participate in. The Macon Mall is still on the bus line, so hey, everybody’s going to be able to take part in this.”