The Choctaw Nation has unveiled plans for a significant $140 million renovation and expansion of Choctaw Casino & Resort Pocola, located in Eastern Oklahoma near the Arkansas border.
The Choctaw Nation, the third-largest Indian tribe in the United States with approximately 212,000 members and over 12,000 employees, has committed to this $140 million initiative. The renovation will provide a comprehensive update for the existing 118-room hotel, featuring new carpeting, lighting, bathroom tiles, and contemporary furnishings.
A new seven-story hotel, comprising 130 premium suites, will be added to the eastern section of the property, alongside extensive renovations for the Pocola casino.
“Choctaw has always been a vital part of this community, growing alongside it and contributing to its success. As the largest employer in LeFlore County and the second-largest resort within our Choctaw Casinos & Resort network, Pocola plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth and opportunity in this area. This investment will enable us to welcome more guests and enhance our hospitality and resort offerings,” stated Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton.
Since its inception in 1994 as a bingo facility, Choctaw Pocola has experienced several expansions. Currently, the casino boasts around 1,700 slot machines, a range of live dealer table games, a poker area, and a racebook.
Concerns from Arkansas Wane
The Choctaw Nation’s expansion efforts come at a time when the prospects for the Cherokee Nation’s long-standing attempt to establish a casino in Pope County, Arkansas, appear increasingly dim.
In November 2024, Pope County voters decisively voted to overturn a casino license granted to the Cherokee Nation after extensive legal battles. Although Pope County was identified for a casino via a statewide referendum in 2018, the local population was one of only 11 counties out of 75 statewide to oppose the legalization of commercial casinos.
With the Choctaw continuing to strengthen its regional hold in Southwestern Arkansas, particularly as Russellville—where the Cherokee Nation aimed to break ground—is under 70 miles from Pocola, the tribe is bolstering its business framework.
The upcoming Pocola casino hotel will feature an upscale resort-style pool complete with private cabanas and an outdoor bar. Additional enhancements include a full-service spa offering elevated wellness experiences, a coffee and tea bar, and comprehensive refurbishments for the property’s restaurants and bars.
A groundbreaking ceremony for this ambitious $140 million investment is slated for later this fall, with more information regarding the project timeline to be announced.
Competitive Landscape
The competition between the Cherokee and Choctaw Nations over the Fort Smith area has been intense.
In 2015, the Cherokee Nation launched the Cherokee Casino and Hotel Roland at an investment of $80 million, strategically located less than 10 air miles northwest of Choctaw Pocola.