Bunch continues fight for The Resort at Walker's Bluff

WILLIAMSON COUNTY - Walker's Bluff owner Cynde Bunch showed her tenacity as she made yet another trek to Springfield this week, continuing her fight to bring economic opportunity to southern Illinois through a proposed resort expansion.

A gaming license is an integral part of the expansion plans.

Bunch is seeking a gaming license from the state of Illinois for an on-site casino, as part of a proposed resort expansion, but the $175 million privately funded project will not proceed without the license.

That license can't be granted until the required legislation is passed.

Bunch said she will not give up her fight.

"Years ago, an article about my business success used the phrase 'coal miner's daughter' to describe me," she said. "That is a title I am proud to hold. Being a coal miner's daughter from Cambria, Illinois, is what made me who I am today - fiercely loyal to my community and its interests, determined to do whatever needs to be done, and willing to pull this region up by its bootstraps to get what we deserve."

The Resort at Walker's Bluff would include two hotels, a full-scale concert/convention center, an indoor water park, restaurants and a casino. Construction would require a workforce of 1,250 with 1,000 permanent positions at the resort.

Several area leaders testified before the State House Gaming Subcommittee last fall, including Herrin Mayor Steve Frattini.

"Aside from direct employment, it will be the catalyst for a ripple effect for job retention, expansion, and new job creation," he told the legislators.

Others on record in favor of the expansion include Jackson County Board Chairman John Rendleman, Kathy Lively, CEO of Mantra-Con Corporation and a member of the Southern Illinois Workforce Development Board, Williamson County Commissioner Ron Ellis, and Rep. Dave Severin (R-Benton).

"Every aspect of The Resort at Walker's Bluff rings true to our mission and methods, as we continue to invest in the communities of Jackson and Williamson Counties, and the Midwest Regional Area as a whole," said Bunch.

She also stated that "extensive research we have conducted validates our confidence that bringing a destination resort to Southern Illinois will dramatically enhance the local and regional economy, and, as a result, the overall quality of life for its communities."

Bunch made the trek to Springfield to underscore the importance of moving ahead with the project. She met with leadership in both the House and Senate as well as introducing the project to a few of the new legislators.

She has not yet met with new governor J.B. Pritzker.

"We have sent a few invitations and requests," she said. "We are ready when he comes to that point on his agenda."

Bunch is hopeful that Pritzker will see the benefit of the project for the downstate area.

"We feel confident that this governor will recognize Southern Illinois, as he promised during his campaign," she said.

The waiting game will now continue.