Announced today, the Indiana Gaming Commission has selected Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) for a casino owner’s license in the state. As a result, Churchill Downs will now develop the Queen of Terre Haut Casino in Vigo County.
The decision came after the Hoosier State’s gaming commission unanimously voted to grant the operator the sole certificate of suitability. This result was decided after a competitive process that included three other bidders.
“We are thrilled for this opportunity and honored for the trust that the Indiana Gaming Commission has placed in CDI and our plan to bring a true destination casino resort to West Central Indiana,” said Bill Carstanjen, Chief Executive Officer of CDI.
As part of the development process, Churchill Downs will build a $240m casino, featuring 1,000 slot machines, 50 table games, a 125-room hotel, a TwinSpires operated sportsbook, and several restaurants.
The property is set to be approximately 400,000 square feet and the architects involved hope it will reflect the history of the Vigo County area.
“In the days ahead, we look forward to continuing our collaboration with local officials in Vigo County and the Indiana Gaming Commission as we work to turn our vision for the Queen of Terre Haute into a reality,” said Jason Sauer, Senior Vice President of Corporate Development for CDI.
Churchill Downs is well known for its racing event, the Kentucky Derby. The company also owns and operates TwinSpires, a sports betting and iGaming platform with seven retail locations.
