Openings & Closings

Spokane Tribe prepares to break ground on off-reservation casino

Friday, July 15, 2016

The Spokane Tribe's off-reservation casino will be located in Airway Heights, Washington. Photo from Spokane Tribe Economic Project / Facebook

The Spokane Tribe of Washington plans to break ground on its off-reservation this fall and open the first phase in 2017.

The initial stage of the Spokane Tribe Economic Project will feature a casino with 450 slot machines and 12 table games, two restaurants and an outdoor activity and eating area, The Spokesman Review reported. The tribe hasn't determined how much the first phase will cost but work is expected to begin in September or October.

"It will be good for the community. It is going to bring jobs," Chairwoman Carol Evans said at a gathering for supporters on Thursday, The Spokesman Review reported.

The tribe pursued the off-reservation casino under the two-part determination provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Both the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Washington Gov. Jay Inslee (D) approved the project.

The casino will be located in Airway Heights. The site is less than three miles from the Northern Quest Resort and Casino, owned by the Kalispel Tribe, whose leaders oppose the new development.

Get the Story:
Spokane tribal casino construction to start this fall (The Spokesman Review 7/15)
Spokane Tribe unveils renderings of casino project (KXLY 7/14)
Spokane Tribe unveils plans for new casino (KREM 7/14)

Relevant Documents:
BIA Two-Part Determination Letter (June 15, 2015)
Washington Governor Letter (June 8, 2016)

Federal Register Notice:
Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed Spokane Tribe of Indians West Plains Casino and Mixed Use Project, City of Airway Heights, Spokane County, WA (February 1, 2013)