Casino operator MGM Resorts is upping the stakes in its war against two tribal gaming operators by announcing plans to develop a Connecticut gaming venue.

On Monday, MGM announced it had inked a deal with developer RCI Group to build a $600m resort casino in Bridgeport, the largest city in Connecticut. The proposed casino, which would require a license from state regulators, marks a further escalation in MGM’s war against the state’s allegedly preferential treatment of its Mohegan and Mashantucket Pequot tribes.

Appearing at a press conference on Monday, MGM CEO Jim Murrren – a Bridgeport native – said the proposed casino would feature 2k slot machines, 160 table games, a 300-room hotel and a 700-seat theater, along with retail and dining amenities.

Murren said the Bridgeport casino “could turn the economic tide in the state. We just need the political commitment to make that happen.” Bridgeport Mayor Jospeh Ganim, who appeared alongside Murren at the presser, welcomed the idea of bringing 7k jobs to the city and assured MGM that Bridgeport was “behind you 100% to make this happen.”