PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates have appealed the city Planning Commission decision to approve steel and foundation plans for a proposed slots casino.

The Pirates are concerned about traffic congestion. The appeal was filed Thursday with the state Supreme Court.

Pirates' attorney Joel Aaronson says the commission should have forced Majestic Star Casino owner Don Barden to submit a plan to deal with the increased traffic before approving construction.

Barden spokesman Bob Oltmanns says the commission acted appropriately and that Barden plans to submit a game-day traffic study by Sept. 30. The casino is expected to open next year.