The Catawba Indian Nation has unveiled ambitious plans to expand its gaming footprint in North Carolina, announcing intentions to develop at least two more casinos following the launch of its $1.25 billion Two Kings Casino Resort in Kings Mountain. This announcement comes on the heels of a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the opening phase of the Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort, which tribal leaders see as just the beginning.
In This News
Catawba’s Growing Presence in Tribal Gaming
Situated conveniently off Interstate 85, about 35 miles from Charlotte, the Two Kings Casino Resort has already started operation since May with a host of gaming offerings—1,350 slot machines, 22 live dealer table games, and several electronic table games, complemented by sports betting kiosks. Catawba Chief Brian Harris expressed pride in overcoming skepticism about the project’s feasibility on the 18-acre site, underscoring what he describes as the indomitable spirit of the Catawba people. the wider complex, expected to be completed next year, will feature a towering 24-story hotel with 385 rooms, 11 dining and bar options, and an expanded gaming floor with 4,300 slots and 100 live tables. The venture is a collaboration with Delaware North, a noted hospitality and gaming conglomerate, supported by a more than $1 billion credit facility from KeyBanc.
Plans for Additional Casino Projects
In a bold statement, Chief Brian Harris declared the tribe is actively working on adding two more casinos in the state. He shared this vision during the ribbon-cutting event but withheld details on exact locations, citing ongoing negotiations. But “We’ve identified the locations, and we’re in preliminary negotiations right now,” Harris told The Charlotte Observer, adding that more information will be shared once agreements are finalized. This expansion plan comes after the tribe managed a major win last week when the Lumbee Tribe, potential competitors, voted against a casino proposal in Robeson County. And this decision ensures that the Catawbas have no direct tribal gaming competition to the east of Charlotte, effectively widening their exclusivity in the region.
Regulatory Hurdles and Market Context
The journey to establish the Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort wasn’t without hurdles. A partnership with North Carolina businessman Wallace Cheves was rejected by the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) due to concerns over Cheves’ past legal issues and the agreement potentially benefiting him more than the tribe. This led the Catawbas to partner with Delaware North, which bolstered their efforts. This isn’t the tribe’s first brush with scrutiny. The NIGC’s rejection of Cheves underscores ongoing regulatory vigilance, especially concerning figures with controversial histories. Given the high stakes involved in tribal gaming, any expansion plans will likely face intense regulatory examination to ensure compliance and benefit to the tribe.
Looking Ahead
The Catawba Indian Nation’s casino initiatives are set to reshape the gaming market in North Carolina. With negotiations ongoing for the additional casinos, further announcements are anticipated once deals are secured. The completion of the Two Kings Resort’s additional phases next year will also be a major milestone for both the tribe and the region’s gaming sector.
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