The Gila River Indian Community has broken ground on a fourth casino in the Phoenix, Arizona metropolitan region, a project approved by the state last summer after the tribe signed a revised gambling compact.
The planned Santan Mountain casino will be built in Chandler, southwest of downtown Phoenix.
The 160-acre, $150m casino will include a BetMGM Sportsbook, more than 850 slots and table games and multiple dining establishments.
“Not only will Santan Mountain bring additional revenue, sustainability, and critical services to our community members, it will elevate our prestige in the gaming and hospitality industry as we continue to craft an entertainment dynasty,” said Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis.
The casino will offer mini baccarat, craps and roulette, which were all legalized in Arizona as part of the state’s expanded gaming bill passed earlier this year.
The legislation allows Arizona to add up to 11 more casinos statewide on top of the 24 current tribal casinos.
Santan Mountain joins Gila River’s Wild Horse Pass and Lone Butte, both located near Chandler, and Vee Quiva in the Phoenix West Valley.
“The comfort of Gila River’s guests is a top priority. Whether a guest is playing the slots during the day or playing at a high-energy, live table at night, Santan Mountain design elements will provide a striking, serene backdrop for memorable entertainment,” said Steelman Partners, the architectural and interior design company for the casino.
The new casino is expected to provide approximately 650 new jobs and will take 18 to 24 months to complete.
