Apart from the previously announced expansion of Spa Resort Casino, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians has also hinted at a possible construction of a new hotel. It is to be located within their Palm Springs property and it will feature up to 350 rooms. The renovation of Spa Resort Casino also includes the establishment of a new retail area and improvement of the spa and parking facilities.
Currently, the tribe is investigating the environmental impact of the construction of the new hotel and according to the released information, they have been working on establishing a plan for the project over the last couple of months. However, tribal representatives were reluctant to provide more information, so yesterday’s announcement was the first to cast light on the matter.
Jeff L. Grubbe, the Tribal Chairman, announced that the environmental study, which is about to start tomorrow is essential for determining the further development of the project and the possible alternatives for a renovation of the downtown property.
Yet, he confirmed that it was impossible to outline the complete plan at such an early stage but said the tribe was considering the option of building a new hotel and adding retail and meeting space. The casino expansion was also among the top priorities. In conclusion, Grubbe said that although there is not a concrete plan yet, the tribe wanted to turn the property into a unique place.
The outcome of the environmental investigation is expected to give the Agua Caliente the green light to the start of a huge renovation project including the expansion of the Spa Resort Casino by a total of 68,000 square feet. The 350-room hotel is to spread on 510,000 square feet of land.
Meeting space and retail commercial space is also included in the Master Plan. As previously reported, the spa and fitness facilities will occupy up to 40,000 square feet. Guests’ will also have 650 parking spaces at their disposal.
Kate Anderson, the Public Relations director of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, was reached for a comment and said that a draft is likely to be introduced in the spring.
The Environmental Impact Report is to be compiled in the period Dec.16 – Jan. 15. During that time, the tribe will accept comments and recommendations. The report is to be publicly presented at the beginning of 2016.
