State College casino now has a name, logo. Here’s where construction stands

State College’s long-awaited mini-casino finally has a name.

The under-construction casino will operate as Happy Valley Casino once it opens next year, developer SC Gaming announced Thursday. Work on the $120 million project at the Nittany Mall began in mid-March.

According to the casino’s development group, the name reflects “the modern vision and spirit” of the casino planned for the mall’s former Macy’s location. The casino logo incorporates visual nods to the State College area’s mountains and valleys, the development group said.

“We feel that the name and logo pays homage to the rich history, picturesque landscapes and enduring spirit of the Happy Valley community that we are proud to be a part of,” SC Gaming CEO and President Eric Pearson said in a written statement.

The casino’s construction is expected to finish by early 2026, remaining on track with plans previously presented to local officials. State College-based Poole Anderson Construction serves as the project’s contractor.

“The project is off to a great start, and we’re confident that once it is completed, we’ll deliver a premier experience focusing on fun, excitement and hospitality that compliments Happy Valley and serves as a catalyst for further exciting development of the Dale Summit region around the Nittany Mall,” Pearson said.

Once open, the 24/7, nonsmoking casino will offer up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a sports betting area, a sports-themed restaurant, a bar and at least one quick-service dining location.

Plans for a mini-casino at the Nittany Mall were in the works for years as the project encountered several legal and logistical hurdles, including the loss of Bally’s Corp. as a partner back in September. In early March, SC Gaming signed a framework agreement with Saratoga Casino Holdings LLC that would give the New York-based company a majority ownership stake in the project if state regulators approve the deal.

Several positions at the casino have also been posted, including director of slots, casino compliance officer and security and transportation manager. The pay range of those positions is about $75,000 to $95,000 a year, according to the listings on Indeed.com.

Those who support the casino project have generally touted the potential economic benefits of the venture, including employment opportunities and revitalization for the mall. Opponents have raised concerns over the casino’s potential to enable gambling addictions and place a strain on first responders and other local resources.

The College Township Council unanimously approved an agreement to allow Convergence Strategies Group, a New Orleans-based casino consulting firm, to complete an impact study for the casino project.

Matt DiSanto

Centre Daily Times

814-231-4616

Matt is a 2022 Penn State graduate. Before arriving at the Centre Daily Times, he served as Onward State’s managing editor and a general assignment reporter at StateCollege.com. Support my work with a digital subscription