Oklahoma-based Cherokee Nation Businesses announced it will partner with the hospitality and stadium-management company Legends to pursue the casino license in Pope County, Arkansas and build a casino-hotel in Russellville. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, an Arkansas native, and former New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner formed Legends in 2008.
In a statement, the tribe said Legends will “deliver a world-class entertainment complex consistent with other venues within the Legends portfolio.” It added Legends “will manage the process for the design and development of the complex, conceive the culinary experience and help CNB to monetize the guest experience for non-gaming attractions.”
Last November, Arkansas voters approved Amendment 100 allowing expanded gambling at Oaklawn and Southland racetracks plus one new casino each in Pope and Jefferson counties. However, Pope County voters opposed the casino amendment, and local elected officials have not approved a developer, as required by the Arkansas Racing Commission. A county referendum will be required before a permit can be issued. Meanwhile, CNB and the four other applicants have been pitching the benefits of their proposals to county residents.
The 135-acre CNB/Legends site is located off Interstate 40 along Nob Hill Road, between Weir Road and Alaskan Trail. The project would be completed in three phases: casino, hotel and restaurants; family friendly and other entertainment options; and additional retail, dining and hotel concepts.
Stephen Jones, executive vice president, chief executive officer and director of player personnel for the Dallas Cowboys said, “We are excited to have Legends involved in the process. It is very important to us because of the family history and connection we have to Arkansas. Legends was founded on the principle of creating a superior guest experience during game day, and we look forward to bringing that expertise to the state of Arkansas.”
