“The market is there because the market is underserved right now,” Steven Crosby, who is the chair of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, said, adding that the resort is safe and secure. The commission called other casinos “modest,” including twin river’s Tiverton location, which is set to open in September.

The state’s gaming commission said MGM will bring an estimated $100 million into Massachusetts.

State data shows Massachusetts residents make up about a third of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun visitors.