The Arizona-based San Carlos Apache Nation has two major casino projects underway simultaneously. The tribe hopes these ambitious endeavors will change its status as one of the poorest Native American communities in the country, in which 40 percent of all households have incomes of less than ,000 and the median income is ,915 compared to ,310 for the rest of the state. About 10,000 individuals live on the tribal reservation near Globe.
First, the tribe is making progress on a $10 million renovation of its 20-year old Apache Gold Casino Resort. Currently the property offers gaming, 146-room hotel, 18-hole championship golf course, nightclub and an RV park.
Second, plans are proceeding on phase one of the tribe’s $25-$30 million Apache Sky Casino Resort, located outside Dudleyville in southeastern Pinal County, about 50 miles south of Apache Gold. Ultimately the property will offer a gaming floor with 500 slot machines, 12 table games, six poker tables, a restaurant and lounge. The first buildings will include a fabric-topped casino and administrative support.
Scheduled for completion in April 2015, the project will create 200 construction jobs and up to 600 permanent jobs. A hotel, conference center and bowling alley or theater could follow in up to five years, depending on how well the casino performs, said Gary Murrey, chief executive officer and general manager of Apache Gold and Apache Sky.
