AUGUSTA, ME - /Boston Globe/ - Mirroring efforts throughout the region to leverage a down economy into approval for new Indian gaming, Maine's two largest Indian tribes have quietly begun lobbying to build a $500 million casino in Kittery.

Though there are big hurdles in the way of the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot tribes getting a casino, including strong opposition from Governor Angus S. King, lawmakers and analysts say casinos are always an easier sell during recessions and this proposal is already building momentum. Backers say location is also a big factor working in its favor, given that Kittery is just 50 miles from Boston and its sea of outlets has made it a steady draw for Massachusetts residents.