The company has purchased the Macon Mall property to build a casino if voters approve
A casino development group has reached a $20 million agreement to buy the Macon Mall property, betting that gambling could soon become legal in Georgia. The deal is tied to voter approval, meaning construction cannot begin unless the state changes its constitution.
Casino gambling is currently prohibited in Georgia, aside from the lottery. Lawmakers would first need to pass a constitutional amendment allowing casinos. That proposal would then go before voters in a statewide referendum before any project could move forward.
Developers say the Macon Mall site offers strong redevelopment potential. The property has existing infrastructure, access to major highways, and sits close to downtown Macon. Retail vacancies in recent years have made the location an appealing target for a large-scale overhaul.
If approved, the plan calls for a resort-style complex with gaming, hotel space, restaurants, and entertainment. Supporters argue the project could bring construction jobs, long-term employment, and new tax revenue to central Georgia.
The timing is significant. Debate around gambling expansion has picked up again in the state, with sports betting proposals resurfacing. Still, casino legalization remains uncertain, and past efforts have stalled before reaching voters.
Critics warn that expanded gambling could carry social costs and shift consumer spending rather than create new economic growth. Backers counter that many Georgia residents already travel to neighboring states to visit casinos, sending potential revenue elsewhere.
