Casino with Space Needle? It's a Plan for Philly.

PHILADELPHIA—The city of Philadelphia could have a 615-foot tall amusement tower called "Skyspire" as part of its skyline.

PHL Local Gaming, one of five bidders for the remaining casino gaming license in the city of Philadelphia, has announced that it has stated discussions with the principal owners of U.S. Thrill Rides of Orlando, FL to bring that company's Skyspire to the firm's casino-related, LoSo Entertainment Center.

The proposed 615-foot-tall amusement tower, which would feature gondolas and seat upwards of 10 persons, along with a rooftop restaurant and observation deck, would be co-developed with the proposed Casino Revolution gaming facility if PHL secures the gaming license.

The proposed Casino Revolution Skyspire would be designed to look very much like the Space Needle in Seattle, WA, but would be built 10 feet taller.

According to Joseph Canfora, president, PHL Local Gaming, the proposed Skyspire addition will consistently generate sufficient visitor traffic, even in a highly competitive casino gaming environment, to ensure that the casino's revenue goals are achieved on an ongoing basis.

PHL Local Gaming, LLC is looking to secure approval for its $428-million Casino Revolution that would feature a 250-room hotel and gaming facility.

Commenting on the proposed agreement with PHL Local Gaming, Michael Kitchen, president of U.S. Thrill Rides, says, "We're very excited about the possibility of bringing our Skyspire attraction to Philadelphia. In addition to being a world-caliber amusement attraction and a stunning piece of architecture, the Skyspire also constitutes a 'wow factor with class' that appeals to the very young, to seniors and all other adult demographics. Sited together with Casino Revolution and its family-friendly LoSo concept, we believe it can be a unique, blockbuster attraction for Philadelphia."