A Tale of Two Brothers: Powerful Siblings May Compete for Springfield Casino

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It appears that that two well-known Springfield businessmen - and brothers - are potential competitors to build a casino in the city. Peter Picknelly, the CEO of Peter Pan Bus Lines, is proposing a casino for Springfield's north end and he's talked with the owners of the Springfield Republican about taking an option on the paper's Main Street property. That's according to the Republican's publisher, George Arwady.

Earlier this week news surfaced that a federal allotment of $17 million had been secured for the renovation of Springfield's Union Station. Plans for the renovation include relocation of Peter Pan's bus depot to the station. That would potentially free up the existing depot for casino development - and the Republican's building is right across the street.

Meanwhile, Peter Picknelly's brother, Paul Picknelly , president of Monarch Enterprises, a Springfield real estate concern, has reportedly met with several city councilors in Springfield to discuss a proposal to develop a casino in the South End of the city.

South end Councilor Melvin Edwards says he's aware of the discussions. And although he has not formed a final opinion on whether a south end casino is a good or a bad idea, he says he does want to make sure that if it happens, it will be the best  possible for the city.

"The Legislature created the monster and now it's up to the host community... to tame the monster that's now been legally created," Edwards said. "Obviously, competition is good and the more competetion there is the more opportunity that the city's leaders have to get as many bells and whistles, as well as address the concerns of those that may be opposed to a casino."

The Picknellys could not be reached for comment for this story.