The Elwha River Casino, owned by the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe in Port Angeles, Washington, announced it will expand by 12,000 square feet. The expansion will double the original gaming area of 10,000 square feet, allowing an increase in the number of gaming terminals from 147 to 300. Construction is expected to be completed early next year.
General Manager Mike Watson said the venue aims to preserve its intimate atmosphere while offering patrons new options. He said, “We’re the little casino that could. We’ve been fortunate with the guest base we’ve had the last 13 years. We don’t want to lose our identity as we expand.” Watson said the expansion will create up to 20 new jobs; currently it employs 42 people.
A small grill, the River’s Edge Bar & Lounge, will expand to accommodate up to 100 diners with indoor and outdoor seating, plus a live performance area, Watson said. The restaurant also will offer alcohol service, a first for the casino. He added the parking area will be expanded and also include space for RVs.
Watson declined to provide the cost of the expansion but said the expenses had soared some 35 percent to 40 percent due to the pandemic and the availability of materials.
Woodstone Inc., of Minnesota, a Native American-owned construction company, will oversee construction and Bergman Walls and Associates and will provide the architectural design.
