Florida’s ‘Alligator Alley’ To Add a Casino to Its Only Gas Station

Article by : Erik Gibbs Aug 18, 2023

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More than just having a clear vision of a new business idea, it’s also about the creativity behind it and the potential might react to it. If casino players have ever thought about the need to continue their gaming streak even while getting gas for their car, then a creative solution to get both done might be underway in Florida.

At the midway point of Interstate 75, the point that connects the state’s southeast and southwest coasts through the Everglades, the Miccosukee Service Plaza, which is expected to undergo a renovation and upgrade, will offer casino enthusiasts the chance to play casino games while they refuel.

The forecast is to have the service station running by November this year. The new casino is therefore set to open at Alligator Alley’s sole pit stop. This translates to roughly 150 slot machines spread throughout an 8,500-square-foot space.

The Miccosukee Tribe is known for its close link to the gaming industry. The tribe already manages a resort and casino in the Everglades, west of Florida International University.

Local economies have exploited the benefits of having the top infrastructure to showcase car exhibitions, shows, and arts and crafts fairs within the locations. Top entertainment events have also included concerts that have featured top music performers such as Willie Nelson and Randy Travis.

The Miccosukee tribe places a high value on diversification. According to “Popeye” William Osceola, the Miccosukee Tribe’s secretary of the business council, the tribe has not pursued further expansion of the casino business in over twenty years.

The 34-year-old also mentioned how important it was for the tribe to expand as a community and the apparent financial benefit it would bring to the tribe’s economy. The secretary of business also added that more people from the tribe are willing to move to the new area to ensure they have sufficient support and thus guarantee the operation’s success.

The Miccosukee Tribe anticipates increased revenue from the construction of the new casino. The 41-year-old chairman and head of the business council confirmed that the land has been under their ownership. Yet, it was until recently that the tribe had enough resources to pursue the expansion of their gaming business.

The tribe has described this highway plaza casino as unique in Florida. Former tribal judge Jane Osceola Billie, 65, mentioned that he was proud to see how the tribe has grown and undertaken new challenges to benefit every Miccosukee member in the community.