Springfield Initiates Campaign to Curtail Drunk Driving Linked to MGM Casino
Introduction to Springfield’s Safe Ride Home Initiative
The City of Springfield has launched the Safe Ride Home Campaign, targeting the reduction of impaired driving risks tied to both alcohol consumption and gambling activities at MGM Springfield.
Background and Purpose of the Campaign
This effort is led by the Springfield Department of Health and Human Services along with the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health, supported financially through the Community Mitigation Fund. The program aims to encourage safer driving choices among visitors to the casino.
The campaign was inspired by findings from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Between 2018 and 2020, MGM Springfield was identified as the second most common “last drink” location in the state. Further research conducted in 2024 involving over 500 casino patrons indicated that a significant portion of these individuals engaged in unsafe driving behaviors or believed they were fit to drive after consuming multiple alcoholic drinks.
Community Impact and Campaign Goals
This initiative underscores the importance of helping communities address the effects of gambling on local public health and safety. The grant funding supports various measures designed to assist casino visitors in making safe decisions before, during, and after their casino visits.
MGM Springfield remains a favored entertainment spot for many, evident from frequent large jackpot wins and a steady flow of local patrons.
Leadership Perspectives on the Campaign
Marlene Warner, CEO of the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health, highlighted that the program complements ongoing efforts to promote responsible gambling and drinking habits. She praised MGM Springfield for its cooperation in bringing the campaign to fruition.
Additional support comes from Springfield’s Health and Human Services Commissioner and the Police Superintendent, with Mayor Domenic Sarno emphasizing their key roles in conveying the campaign’s message. Mayor Sarno urged residents to plan not just their entertainment but also their safety and return journey, fostering collective responsibility for community well-being.
Outreach Strategies and Public Engagement
The campaign will reach Springfield’s population through diverse channels including online advertising, social media platforms, on-site casino signage, a prominently placed billboard near Interstate 91, and community outreach programs.
