Casino Style 2024 | Page 13

Building the Future

Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit • HBG Design

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fter years of anticipation and planning , the Ho-Chunk Nation is gearing up to kick off construction of what will be a transformative development for the regional gaming industry , the nation , and the city of Beloit , Wisconsin : the new $ 405 million Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit casino complex . Set to break ground in fall 2024 , the project is being designed by leading national hospitality design firm HBG Design , and will mark a significant economic boost for the Wisconsin region .
The approval granted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs in May 2022 paved the way for the construction of the casino on a 33-acre site at Willowbrook and Colley roads near Interstate 39-90 . This decision represents the culmination of years of federal processes and discussions and negotiations between tribal representatives , local authorities and community stakeholders .
“ We are thrilled to advance our development plans in time for a fall groundbreaking , moving forward with the final design by HBG Design , the infrastructure work and construction ,” says Robert Mudd , executive director of business for the Ho-Chunk Nation . “ In the gaming market , our competitors are stepping up , as they should . Each offers a unique product , and that ’ s our aim too .”
The construction timeline is expected to span 18 to 24 months . A large 1,500-to-1,800-slot casino with 44 table games will open as early as feasibly possible , followed by an 18- story , 300-key hotel tower ; multi-purpose convention center , and multiple food and beverage venues . Plans also include sports betting facilities , available through an agreement between the Ho-Chunk Nation and the state of Wisconsin , showcasing the project ’ s commitment to offering a comprehensive entertainment experience geared to customer interests .
One of the most significant aspects of the development is its potential to generate jobs and revenue for Beloit and Rock County . During construction , the project will create an estimated 3,000 direct and indirect jobs . Once operational , it will offer around 1,500 permanent positions . Furthermore , the casino ’ s revenue-sharing agreements with the city and county are expected to provide up to $ 3 million annually , contributing to local infrastructure improvements and community services .
Beyond its economic impact , the complex promises to enhance Beloit ’ s tourism and hospitality sectors . With its expansive convention center and other amenities , the city aims to attract business conventions , expos ,
concerts and more , further solidifying its position as a regional hub for entertainment and commerce .
This is the seventh casino owned and operated by the Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin , joining Ho-Chunk Gaming Black River Falls , Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison , Ho-Chunk Gaming Nekoosa , Ho-Chunk Gaming Tomah , Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells in Baraboo and Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg .
Specializing in the design of high-profile large-scale resort destinations , HBG Design has extensive knowledge of the Ho-Chunk Gaming brand , having crafted and delivered multiple successful architecture and interior designs for the Ho-Chunk Nation . HBG previously led the planning , design and delivery of Ho-Chunk Gaming ’ s expansions and renovations across its Wisconsin Dells , Black River Falls and Wittenberg , Wisconsin properties . Those projects were completed in 2018 and 2019 .
OWNER-OPERATOR : HO-CHUNK NATION DESIGNER : HBG DESIGN
2024 CASINO STYLE 7