A vote handing the sole Boston-area casino license to Wynn Resorts' proposed casino in Everett, Massachusetts, is a crushing blow to Suffolk Downs in nearby Revere, which had partnered with Mohegan Sun for its own proposal.

Officials say the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's decision will mean horse racing will be coming to an end at the 79-year-old thoroughbred track.

Many are upset because they feel this is a legacy industry facing big changes in the future, from the daily workers to the trainers and even the businesses nearby.

Stunned when he heard the news, horse trainer Tim Salisbury says the decision signals the end of an era.

"At this point, it certainly doesn't look good, but I guess it's never over until it's over. But Suffolk Downs clearly needed the casino to compliment the racing, 'cause standing alone racing, you know, was kind of in trouble," he said.

Suffolk Downs communications director Jessica Paquette says she's crushed by the decision.

"These are generations of horsement, people's grandfathers and fathers and their sons that have made this their life," she said.

The impact extends far beyond the track, and business of late hasn't been strong.

Across the street, Shaw's Supermarket closed down, and Parkway Convenience doesn't want to be next.

"Now it's going to be like a ghost town unless we see something go there. Which we don't think anything will be there right away," clerk Ed Yasi said.

Revere residents also reacted to the loss of potential jobs in the area.

"I live right on this strip, so if it came here, I've had a better chance getting a job here than other people," resident Susan Gelormini lamented.

East Boston residents voted down the proposed casino last year, but Revere residents supported it.