On November 17, the Indiana Gaming Commission awarded a certificate of suitability to Churchill Downs to build and operate a Vigo County casino in Terre Haute. That’s not the same as a casino license; the commission still must resolve issues with Lucy Luck Gaming, which previously was granted the gaming license. Lucy Luck owner Greg Gibson sued the IGC after it would not renew the license previously issued to Lucy Luck due to staffing and financing requirements.
Observers said recent discussions between Terre Haute officials and Churchill Downs Chief Executive Officer Bill Carstanjen have focused on the casino’s location. Churchill Downs has proposed a 10-story hotel near the Haute City Center mall off South U.S. 41, with a view of a wastewater treatment plant and a new county jail. Three other groups competing for the license recommended building the new casino in east Terre Haute near U.S. 40/Indiana 46.
Terre Haute Mayor Duke Bennett and Vigo County Commissioner Chris Switzer want the casino built on city property near U.S. 40/Indiana 46, an area that “seems to be growing quicker than any other area in our community,” Switzer said. He added Carstanjen “is open to discussion with the city and county and what we think is the best location. It will be interesting, but I believe it will be very productive. I’m really comfortable with the situation and look forward to discussing a Local Development Agreement with Churchill. I would welcome guidance from the Indiana Gaming Commission on proper steps moving forward regarding site selection. I also feel relieved that this process is coming to an end.”
Churchill Downs’ proposed casino would offer 1,000 slots and 50 table games, and create 500 permanent jobs. Projections indicated the casino would generate $638.9 million in gross gaming receipts in the first five years from 6.7 million visitors.
