MGM lion statue lowered into place as National Harbor resort and casino nears completion

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. - One of the finishing touches is being added to the MGM National Harbor resort and casino.

The majestic MGM Lion was put into place on Thursday. The 18 foot tall steel lion sits adjacent to the casino entrance.

The statue weighs two tons and rests on a concrete pedestal. It was prefabricated off site and finished in a gold metallic paint.

The new casino is scheduled to open in December 2016.