The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas has commenced construction on its expansive 95-acre Naskila Casino Resort project in Leggett, signaling a significant growth in its gaming initiatives within East Texas.
The groundbreaking event saw the participation of tribal leaders, community members, and casino staff, all coming together to commemorate this long-awaited construction launch.
“This journey has been extensive,” noted Vice-Chairwoman Nita Battise, as cited by the Dallas Morning News. “We have faced numerous challenges, yet we stand as a testament to our resilience as we progress, and here we are.”
Once finalized in 2028, the resort is projected to encompass a sprawling 685,000-square-foot casino complex, featuring a vibrant gaming floor equipped with approximately 3,400 electronic gaming machines.
The plans also highlight a multi-tiered hotel with 366 rooms, an enticing resort-style swimming pool, and a comprehensive event and conference center. Additionally, a majestic ballroom catering to up to 1,000 guests is anticipated to draw conventions, special occasions, and regional assembles.
Texas officials have consistently opposed the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe’s efforts to establish a casino on its 11,000-acre reservation located in Livingston, roughly 73 miles northeast of Houston in East Texas.
This dynamic shifted following a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled that Texas is unable to enforce regulations on gaming within reservations, as such matters fall under federal jurisdiction.
The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe is one among three federally recognized tribes in Texas operating gaming venues that comply with electronic bingo-style gaming allowed by federal law. The other tribes include the Traditional Kickapoo Tribe of Texas in Eagle Pass and the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo in El Paso.
The tribe is currently running the Naskila Casino on their reservation in Livingston, situated just about 10 miles from the new Leggett site. Operations at the existing casino are expected to persist during the construction phase.
Starting in August, the tribe plans to unveil a temporary gaming facility adjacent to the new resort site. This interim casino will function until the permanent resort is anticipated to open in late 2028.
It is yet uncertain whether the original Naskila Casino in Livingston will remain operational after the inauguration of the new resort.
Among the attendees present at the groundbreaking ceremony was Jonodev Chaudhuri, the former chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission, which supervises tribal gaming at the national level.
According to Livingston Mayor Judy Cochran, the casino is a boon for the local economy, as most patrons originate from outside the area and contribute to local spending.
“The outcome of attracting visitors is that they stay in Livingston,” she emphasized. “They dine here, spend the night, and contribute financially to our community.”
She further remarked that the casino holds considerable significance for both the city and its inhabitants.
The tribe has emerged as one of the key employers in the region. In Livingston alone, about 1,000 permanent positions—collectively accounting for $34.5 million in annual wages—are associated with Naskila’s operations, representing over 15% of the private-sector income in Polk County, per a recent economic analysis.