Pennsylvania-based Penn National Gaming Inc., the licensee for Massachusetts’ sole slots-only gaming license, will break ground on Plainridge Park Casino on Friday.

"We are thrilled to begin construction of this new economic engine for the commonwealth of Massachusetts," Eric Schippers, senior vice president of government affairs for Penn National Gaming, said in a statement. "We look forward to celebrating this momentous occasion with our employees, members of the community, and local and state leaders who helped make this dream a reality."

Penn is constructing a $225 million fully-integrated racing and gaming operation at Plainridge Racecourse. Plainridge Park Casino at 301 Washington St. will include a 106,000-square-foot facility featuring live harness racing and simulcasting with 1,250 slot machines, an upscale casual dining restaurant and the first-ever Doug Flutie Sports Bar, among other amenities. It will also include 1,620 structured and surface parking spaces, a 26,000-square-foot grandstand and a 13,000-square-foot clubhouse.

Penn was awarded the gaming license on Feb. 28. At the groundbreaking ceremony, the company will share construction timelines, employment opportunities and upcoming activities. In addition to the creation of an estimated 1,000 construction jobs, it is expected that Plainridge Park will result in 500 new permanent jobs once completed.

Penn National Gaming operates 26 facilities in 17 jurisdictions, including Florida, Iowa and Maine.