North Carolina tribal casino gives update on $275m expansion

Article by : Charles Perrin Dec 14, 2023

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Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino in North Carolina is making smooth progress with its project, and it is on track to meet its 2024 target opening date, according to tribal officials.

The establishment that is based 40 miles southwest of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ (ECBI) primary casino resort, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, is undergoing its second expansion since launching in 2015.

Yes, a previous refurbishment was conducted in 2017. This accommodated more non-gaming entertainment space, but it was much smaller in scale at the time, setting the ECBI back $13million.

However, the latest renovation, which will be to the tune of $275m, will be completed in mid-2024. Work formally began in 2022, and the multi-million investment will see a raft of new casino amenities installed.

Apart from adding an extra 25,000 square feet of gaming space, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino will boast 300 slot machines, a 10-table World Series of Poker (WSOP) branded room, and a new casino bar complete with 14 tabletop positions.

Not only that, but the expansion project has called for an extra 1,700 car parking spaces along with six electric charging stations.

The growth project has taken on extra significance with casino competition from other tribes soaring in the surrounding areas. Yes, the Catawbas have a temporary casino called Two Kings, but they are hoping to construct a permanent resort in Kings Mountain near Charlotte.

As things stand, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino relies heavily on visitors from Tennessee and Georgia who currently have no access to casinos in those states.

Discussing the project, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino General Manager Lumpy Lambert said: “We recognized the necessity of an expansion when we opened eight years ago.

“We are certainly looking forward to the opportunity to grow and expand our market.”

The expansion is likely to create over 100 new jobs, with the extra revenue generated designed to provide economic prosperity for the ECBI.

Meanwhile, state legislative efforts to push through legalized commercial casinos in the Tar Heel State have so far hit the buffers, but this is expected to be revisited next year.

As far as Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino is concerned, their ambition can’t be faulted, and it will be fascinating to see how the refurbishment is received by patrons.