MGM Springfield Names Brian Packer VP, Slates Groundbreaking

SPRINGFIELD — MGM Resorts International announced that Brian Packer has been named vice president of Development and Construction for MGM Springfield. Additionally, MGM Springfield is inviting contractors in mass excavation; underground mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEPs), and site utilities; and foundation and waterproofing services to attend meetings to learn more about contractor opportunities for early work.

This heightened activity was announced a day before the Massachusetts Gaming Commission is scheduled to meet in Springfield to get a more detailed construction update from the company, and as the MGM Springfield team makes preparations for a March 24 groundbreaking event.

As part of the MGM Resorts development team, which provides oversight and construction management on all regional and international integrated-resort projects, Packer will provide executive oversight for all aspects of construction and program-management activities at MGM Springfield.

He has been an owner’s representative for MGM Resorts for more than 10 years, specializing in large, complex design and construction projects. He most recently served as director of Design and Construction. While in this role, he assembled the team that helped open ARIA Resort & Casino, one of the largest private developments of its kind.

“Our team designs and delivers the most distinct hospitality properties in the world,” said Michael Mathis, MGM Springfield president. “Brian is the right person to assist in developing MGM Springfield, the largest development in Springfield and one of the largest in the region’s history.”

Added Packer, “I was thrilled to have been asked to come to Springfield on behalf of MGM. Our company has been abuzz about the revolutionary and integrated downtown design and what we hope to accomplish for the Western Massachusetts region. I look forward to working together with our local partners to achieve this new vision for Springfield.”

The construction of MGM Springfield will offer opportunities in a wide range of property components, such as early work and off-site work for the garage, casino, hotel tower, and retail plaza. Each component will allow for various bid opportunities for local contractors, in both prime and sub roles. MGM has and will continue to advertise additional opportunities for future construction packages as they become available. Interested bidders will learn about the scope of work, how to participate in the pre-qualification process, and MGM Springfield’s policy on minority contractors, vendors, and purchasing.

“As certain aspects of the construction phase become the next priority, we will roll out this meeting process to get the right people for each piece of this design,” Mathis said. “Every introductory meeting has the potential to put workers on site and bring new life in the South End of Springfield. We want to have as many conversations as possible.”

The upcoming information appointments will take place at the MGM Springfield Community Office located at 1441 Main St. Contractors must schedule an appointment ahead of time to avail a 30-minute slot. Walk-in appointments are discouraged. Mass excavation appointments will be scheduled for Thursday, March 12; underground MEPs and site-utilities appointments will be scheduled for Thursday, March 19; and foundation and waterproofing appointments will be scheduled for Thursday, March 26. Call the MGM Springfield Community Office at (413) 735-3000 to make an appointment or for additional information regarding these opportunities. The first wave of construction at MGM Springfield will begin soon after the groundbreaking.