The Catawba Indian Nation’s ambitious $1.25 billion casino resort in Kings Mountain marks just the beginning of an extensive gaming expansion, as tribal leaders announce plans for at least two additional casinos across North Carolina.
This week, the Catawbas celebrated the official opening of the “introductory casino” at the Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting.
Situated off Interstate 85 at Exit 5, approximately 35 miles west of Charlotte, the initial phase of this permanent casino features 1,350 slot machines, 22 live dealer table games, dozens of electronic table games, and sports betting kiosks. Although the facility has been operational since May, tribal leaders officially launched the casino on Wednesday, July 1.
“They said it wasn’t feasible to operate on 18 acres,” Catawba Chief Brian Harris commented regarding his critics. “We’re not meant to be here; they didn’t recognize the resilience of the Catawba people.”
The introductory casino will remain in business until the entire $1.25 billion resort is finished, which is expected sometime next year. The upcoming resort is set to feature a 24-story hotel with 385 rooms, 11 diverse dining and bar options, and an expansive casino boasting 4,300 slots, 100 live tables, and a sportsbook.
This venture is a collaborative effort between the tribe and hospitality and gaming giant Delaware North. KeyBanc has provided over a $1 billion credit facility for this project.
Delaware North joined forces with the Catawba Indian Nation after the federal National Indian Gaming Commission denied an agreement with North Carolina businessman Wallace Cheves and his Sky Boat Gaming due to concerns that the property would primarily benefit Cheves rather than the tribe. The NIGC also expressed apprehensions about Cheves’ suitability for holding a role in a tribal casino, citing his past financial penalties for running illegal video gambling operations in multiple states.
Catawbas Hint at More Casino Projects
The highlight of Wednesday’s ribbon-cutting event was the announcement that the Catawbas are just getting started in the tribal gaming arena. Harris specified that the tribe has pinpointed two prospective sites for more casinos.
We are set to construct two additional casinos in this state, and we are absolutely going to see them realized.”
Catawba Chief Brian Harris
When questioned by The Charlotte Observer about potential locations for the two new casinos, Harris said, “I’m not able to share that information at this time.”
“It revolves around negotiations. We’ve identified the sites and are in the early stages of discussions. Once those agreements are finalized, we will make a formal announcement,” Harris elaborated.
Expanded Exclusivity
Recently, the Catawbas achieved a critical milestone as the Lumbee Tribe voted against a casino initiative in Robeson County along I-95.
Lumbee tribal members turned down a proposed amendment to their tribal constitution that would have granted tribal leaders the right to approve gaming and create a gaming regulatory commission. This outcome secures a significant competitive advantage for the Catawbas, as they will not face gaming competition east of Charlotte, thereby maintaining a wider market share.
The other two tribal casinos in North Carolina are Harrah’s Cherokee and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River, both situated in the state’s southwestern region.