SugarHouse Casino hearing

City politicians lined up in support of the SugarHouse Casino's  $155 million  expansion plan, which has changed since it was originally approved by the state's gaming control Board in 2009.

The revised plan calls for a lower and smaller parking garage, almost a doubling in gaming space, a new poker room, a banquet and meeting room and more waterfront amenities.

Sen. Larry Farnese, a Democrat whose district includes SugarHouse, applauded the company for being a "good steward of the waterfront" as well as a good corporate citizen. SugarHouse has taken over sponsorship of the Mummer's Parade and also underwrites New Year's Eve fireworks.

Since opening in 2010, SugarHouse has raised more than $300 million in tax revenue, including about $35 million paid directly to the city of Philadelphia for schools and reducing the wage tax.

The casino donates $500,000 a year to the Penn Treaty Special Services District. The sum, casino officials said, will double with the expansion.

Wendy Hamilton, general manager of SugarHouse, said the casino was "ripe for expansion."

"This is a better plan; this is a smarter plan," she said.