The Catawba Nation has resolved a significant legal dispute and is ready to commence the construction of their $700 million permanent casino resort in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. This monumental project has been made feasible by the agreement the tribe recently secured with their previous casino developer regarding the ground lease for their trust lands.
The tribe eagerly anticipates the groundbreaking for their new resort on June 7th, which will be situated roughly 35 minutes from Charlotte's city center. This momentous occasion follows the Catawba Nation's private settlement with Sky Boat Gaming in early May, effectively removing the company's participation in the venture. Additionally, earlier this year, the tribe acquired additional land surrounding their temporary casino from Sky Boat, including the parking area and other properties that could potentially accommodate resort facilities.
“We persevered to achieve a fair deal so that we can now realize the full financial and economic benefits of the project for Catawba Nation members and residents of Cleveland County.”
- Brian Harris, Catawba Nation Chief
He added that the casino is much more than just a physical structure. It symbolizes the tribe's dedication to safeguarding their cultural heritage, uplifting the community, and opening up new possibilities for growth and progress.
Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Developments
Tribal leaders have affirmed that the plans for the permanent casino remained a priority throughout the settlement discussions. The construction and design plans are now complete, the initial funding has been obtained, and a ceremonial ground-breaking ceremony is scheduled for this week, signaling the official commencement of the project.
The tribe has also successfully carried out two vital infrastructure projects:
- widening the Dixon School Road Bridge over the I-85 highway
- setting up new sewer lines in the vicinity of the casino location
The company Delaware North has been selected to run and build the permanent casino resort, contingent on the Indian Gaming Commission approving the contract. SoshNY Design has been chosen as the architect to design this new development.
As the construction progresses, the Catawba Nation will keep running their temporary casino, which started operating in 2021. This casino has 1,000 slot machines, electronic table games, a retail sportsbook, and a restaurant. This summer, the temporary casino will expand by adding 12 live table games, 56 more slot machines, and additional surface parking.
Phased Development of the Resort
The initial casino complex will be constructed in a two-part process:
Introductory Casino: The initial stage will have 1,350 gaming slots and electronic table games, 12 traditional gaming tables, and a 40-seat dining venue with a sportsbook section. Accompanying facilities like surveillance, security, and the initial two levels of a 1,600-capacity parking structure will also be finished. This phase is anticipated to be up and running by early 2026, superseding the temporary site and generating approximately 420 employment opportunities.
Full Casino Resort: The next step in the plan is to build a sizeable hotel with 400 rooms, as well as the rest of the casino facility. The hotel will be attached to the casino, creating a seamless experience for visitors. When finished, the resort will boast 4,300 slot machines, 100 gaming tables, five dining establishments, a lounge for players, and six bars. Upon opening, the resort will have a staff of around 2,200 employees.
The exact date for the grand opening of the casino and hotel remains uncertain. Yet, the initial casino section will later function as the designated smoking area within the expanded gambling complex once the entire resort is up and running.
