Glitzy Parx Casino Opens in Bensalem

Philadelphia Park Casino and Racetrack opened the doors on Friday to its new, permanent gambling venue in Bensalem, Pa.

"I know Christmas is next week, but really for these people, it's today."

Hundreds waited in the cold for the doors of the new the Parx Casino to open at 6am. Leroy James was right there with them -- getting his first look at the imported chandeliers, marble floors, and huge video screens in the $250-million facility on Street Road:

"This is my nightclub now. When I come to have enjoyment and entertainment, I come over here to Philadelphia Park and enjoy myself."

(DeNardo:) "Walking in the doors here, what's your first impression?"

"It's like Las Vegas -- better than Las Vegas."

The 260,000-square-foot complex replaces the temporary slots parlor that opened two years ago at Philadelphia Park, next door. Spokeswoman Carrie Nork Minelli says no stone was unturned in the design of this glitzy casino:

"The finishes are absolutely beautiful. Everything is just brand new. The chandelier is imported from Italy, the teakwood marble from Pakistan throughout the lobby area. It's really upscale and very beautiful."

There are more than 3,000 slot and video poker machines, along with an an eye on the future. Minelli says there are plans to expand to table gambling once the state legislature gives its approval:

"We do have plans for a hotel, retail, nightclub, and those plans are next phases."
(Photos by KYW's Mike DeNardo) KYW-AM 1060 Newsradio is the Philadelphia market leader with more listeners than any other radio station in the Delaware Valley and is an integral part of community and daily life in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Listen to KYW streaming online for up to the minute Philadelphia news, Philadelphia traffic, Philadelphia weather and Philadelphia sports. Subscribe to KYW podcasts for Philadelphia news on demand and listen to selected live Philadelphia news events and news conferences. www.kyw1060.com