Dec. 06, 2011--Steve Wynn unveiled his $1 billion Foxboro casino plan with all the flash of a high-roller -- but the Las Vegas magnate has no problem folding his cards on projects when significant roadblocks emerge.

"Steve is pretty savvy about not wasting time and money on hopeless causes," said Christina Binkley, author of "Winner Takes All," a book about Wynn and other Vegas moguls. "If he thinks he's going to fail, he's out of there and on to the next opportunity."

Wynn announced plans this month to team up with New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft to build a resort-style casino across from Gillette Stadium. But local opposition has already emerged, which history suggests puts the plan at risk.

Wynn offered $300 million to develop a "racino" at a New York City race track in 2009, but withdrew after six months when he felt state officials were dragging the approval process out.

Then, the magnate proposed taking over a struggling $600 million Philadelphia casino project in 2010 -- but bowed out six weeks later.

"I still don't think anyone in government knows why he (withdrew)," said Mark McDonald, spokesman for Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter.

Wynn had told both Philadelphia and New York officials that he wanted quick consideration of his plans.

The builder told Foxboro authorities the same thing over the weekend, saying he wants the community to decide within 120 days whether to back his latest bid.

Binkley said Wynn's rapid moves in and out of projects reflect his personality.

"He's beyond Type A," she said. "I don't know what type you would call him."

The author said Wynn "seems to tell people: 'I'm not going to let you jerk me around for years.' He wants to get decisions quickly."

[email protected]

___

(c)2011 the Boston Herald

Visit the Boston Herald at www.bostonherald.com

Distributed by MCT Information Services