The construction of the $90-million expansion of the Legends Casino, property of the Yakama Nation, is in process. The multimillion revamp involves the building of a six-story hotel which will offer about 200 rooms to its guests. The already established casino venue is also undergoing certain changes.
The construction process started this summer. After its refurbishment, the venue will feature a spa, more dining space, a larger casino floor, and a new modern events center.
Kristin Lumley, general assistant manager at Legends Casino, shared that certain changes were made so as for the new construction to be accommodated. For instance, the venue’s main entrance needed to be moved and the poker room was positioned upstairs. Yet, it seems that its visitors do not object to the rearrangement.
According to Lumley, both customers and workers are excited about the renovation and it will not result in a decrease in visits. This $90-million expansion project is a major investment for the tribe as the Legends Casino was built toward the end of the 1990s for no more than $9 million.
Lumley also stated that their main purpose is to attract people even from Seattle and Portland. Locals are also welcome to take advantage of all the activities and services the venue is to offer.
Tom Hatfield, construction superintendent for Swinerton Builders, said the expansion is carried out in phases so as for the casino to be able to stay open. He shared that construction process around a working facility might be quite difficult but they have not faced any considerable challenges.
The project is planned to be completed by the summer of 2016. Yet, according to Lumley, the hotel and the renovated gaming venue will most probably be ready to open doors for visitors towards the end of 2015.
The current phase involves the expansion of the gaming area and the construction of the hotel and spa. Next, everything will be remodeled and thus, a fully renovated and consistent property will be built. The last phase includes the revamp of the events center so as for it to be able to host events of all kinds.
The expansion of the casino will provide room for 200 more gaming machines. As for the dining area, it will offer an updated buffet and additional 160 seats for guests and visitors of the venue. The events center is planned to provide sufficient space for thousands of people.
Previously, different kinds of shows had taken place in the events center. Then, the facility was converted into gaming space so as for customer demand to be met.
Lumley said that currently, the project is both on schedule and on budget.
Hatfield commented that at least 100 people will be involved in the construction process in 2015. What is more, once they complete the expansion, 200 jobs will be created and most of them will be full-time. Thus, a total of 800 people will be working for Legends.
