U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary Indian Affairs Tara Katuk Sweeney recently approved two land-trust applications submitted in 2016 by the Chickasaw Nation for casino resorts at Ardmore and Kingston, Oklahoma. Sweeney said, “In reviewing the Chickasaw Nation’s applications, I determined that the transfer of these parcels into trust for gaming purposes would promote its long-term economic development and self-sufficiency, self-determination and self-governance. This action comports with our mission to support tribes in their efforts to utilize their lands and resources for the long-term benefit of their people.”
Chickasaw Nation Secretary of Commerce Bill Lance stated, “The Chickasaw Nation may now proceed to the next phase of development on these important regional tourism and entertainment projects, which are projected to create approximately 200 new jobs at the Ardmore location and 175 jobs at the Kingston location. Studies conducted on behalf of the Chickasaw Nation estimate a combined economic impact, including construction, of $160 million in the first year, and a combined 5-year economic impact of $783 million. We look forward to the tremendous positive impacts these projects will have on our Chickasaw citizens and surrounding communities for many years to come.”
The Chickasaw Ardmore casino is projected to have a total estimated economic impact on the regional economy of $102.4 million in the first year of operation.
Total construction costs for the Chickasaw Kingston casino are estimated at $19.4 million and annual revenue is estimated at $15.9 million. The total economic impact on the regional economy is projected at $22.9 million.
