After years of speculation and anticipation, the Ho-Chunk Nation has announced that construction on their long-awaited Beloit casino will officially begin this fall. The groundbreaking ceremony is set to take place in September, marking a significant milestone for the tribe and the city of Beloit.
The Ho-Chunk Nation first revealed their plans for a casino in Beloit back in 2015, with hopes of bringing economic growth and job opportunities to the area. The project has faced numerous obstacles and delays over the years, including legal challenges and opposition from anti-gambling groups. However, the tribe has remained committed to seeing the project through to fruition.
The new casino will be located on a 73-acre plot of land near Interstate 39/90, just off of Colley Road. The facility is expected to feature a large gaming floor with slots and table games, as well as a hotel, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The project is estimated to cost around $405 million and is expected to create over 2,000 jobs during the construction phase alone.
In a statement, Ho-Chunk Nation President Jon Greendeer expressed his excitement for the upcoming groundbreaking ceremony, calling it a “major step forward” for the tribe and the community. He also highlighted the economic benefits that the casino will bring to Beloit, including increased tax revenue and tourism.
Local officials and residents have also voiced their support for the project, citing the potential for economic growth and development in the area. Beloit Mayor Regina Dunkin praised the Ho-Chunk Nation for their commitment to the community, stating that the casino will “bring new opportunities and vitality to Beloit.”
The Ho-Chunk Nation is currently in the process of finalizing agreements with the city of Beloit and the state of Wisconsin, including a gaming compact that will outline the terms of the casino operation. Once these agreements are in place, construction is expected to move forward quickly, with an estimated completion date of 2023.
Overall, the announcement of the Beloit casino groundbreaking has generated a sense of excitement and optimism among the Ho-Chunk Nation and the local community. The project represents a significant investment in the future of Beloit and promises to bring new opportunities and prosperity to the region.
