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After months of anticipation, Churchill Downs’ new Terre Haute casino is scheduled to open on April 5, while the hotel will open on May 15. The casino is off Margaret Avenue on the city’s east side, close to the intersection of Indiana 46 and Margaret.
Churchill Downs revealed the opening dates of the new Terre Haute casino yesterday via its Facebook page.
Indiana will be Churchill Downs’ 14th state, as the company owns and runs 13 racetracks across Kentucky, New Hampshire and Virginia. The company also has 12 casinos in 10 other states.
The Indiana Gaming Commission chose Churchill Downs in November 2021 to operate the new facility. It was due to the company’s proposal including the biggest capital investment of $239 million and the most extensive complex.
Indiana casino’s grand opening celebration is set for Apr. 5
The casino’s grand opening celebration will be at 10:30 a.m. on Apr. 5. From then on, the casino will be open round the clock. The new Terre Haute resort will feature:
- The casino
- 10-story luxury hotel with about 125 rooms
- 1,000 slot machines
- 34 gaming tables
- Nine food and beverage venues
According to a Tribune-Star news article, Vigo County Commissioner Mark Clinkenbeard said:
“We’re thrilled that we have a date for the opening of the casino, with the hotel opening to follow. We’re excited to see how this will benefit our community. This is another piece to the puzzle of economic development for Vigo County.”
The casino’s construction should bring about 1,000 jobs with part-time and full-time employment opportunities. The company’s website currently lists 25 Terre Haute Casino Resort job openings.
The Mayor of Terre Haute, Brandon Sakbun commented: “The incoming casino dollars will provide resources to address some of our many city services like paving, sidewalk improvement, parks upgrades, and improved equipment for city staff to deliver for the people of Terre Haute.”
Terre Haute mayor promises infrastructure improvements near casino
Terre Haute mayor Sakbun also emphasized safety and transportation concerns associated with the opening of the new casino in Indiana:
“You don’t have to be secretary of transportation to understand that an estimated 1.1 million incoming visitors may create traffic concerns.
Our engineering department remains in close conversation with state agencies about transportation and infrastructure improvements on State Road 46 and Margaret.”
“Our public safety leaders remain in close contact with the casino and are conducting prudent planning to ensure all residents and tourists alike have a safe and enjoyable experience,” Sakbun concluded.
