Crystal Shores Casino set to open in Benzonia, enhancing local entertainment options.
The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians has announced plans for the Crystal Shores Casino in Benzonia, Michigan, set to open on January 22, 2025. The gaming destination will feature slot machines and aims to create around 40 local jobs. A soft opening for tribal members is scheduled for January 18-19, 2025. With renovations underway and a commitment to community engagement, this venture promises to enhance local entertainment and economic development.
Big news has landed in Benzonia, Michigan! The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians has officially announced that they will soon be opening a shiny new gaming destination called Crystal Shores Casino. This exciting venture will be located at 7282 Hoadley Road, right in the heart of Benzonia. Mark your calendars, folks, because the grand opening is set for January 22, 2025, with a special soft opening exclusively for tribal members taking place a little earlier, on January 18-19.
Now, let’s talk about where this casino is going to call home. The casino is being set up in what used to be a community center within a tribal government building. So, it’s got the perfect spot to become a community hub! With about 2,794 square feet dedicated to the gaming floor, the space will comfortably accommodate around 250 guests at a time.
When Crystal Shores Casino opens its doors, it will kick things off with slot machines only. While you may have to wait a little longer for table games, there will be all the classic slots you can handle! One important detail to note is that, initially, there won’t be any alcohol sold on the premises. The food service will also be limited to simple offerings, making it a casual stop for some gaming fun.
With such a new and exciting establishment in town, the casino is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy by creating about 40 jobs for the area with an average annual wage around $27,000. This has the potential to rise with tips included, allowing for some extra spending money. The tribe is focused on building between 20 and 50 new jobs through this operation, giving a much-needed boost to employment in the surrounding Benzie County community.
As the casino gets up and running, the tribe isn’t stopping there. They have future plans in mind to possibly expand into a larger casino facility in the same area. They’ll be monitoring interest and engagement from the community, so who knows what the future holds!
Overseeing the transformation of the community center into a thriving casino is Johnny Barrientoz, the CEO of Grand Traverse Resort and Casinos. It’s his team that’s been hard at work making renovations that include updates to electrical systems, architecture, flooring, and furnishings to create a fantastic environment for visitors.
The Grand Traverse Band has already established a strong relationship with Benzie County, contributing nearly $4 million in revenue-sharing payments since a consent judgment in 1993. This friendly partnership reflects a commitment to community engagement, which can only get better with the introduction of this new casino.
Ensuring safety at the new casino is a top priority. A cross-deputization agreement has been arranged between the tribe and the Benzie County Sheriff’s Department to guarantee that public safety standards are met, allowing everyone to enjoy their time at Crystal Shores with peace of mind.
As visitors flock to the new venue, parking will not be an issue. The casino plans to add approximately 90 new parking spaces to welcome guests, ensuring that everyone has a convenient spot to park upon arrival.
As January 2025 approaches, excitement is brewing in Benzonia! With the promise of a fresh entertainment option and job creation right around the corner, things are looking bright for the local community. Stay tuned for more updates as the opening date approaches, and get ready to try your luck at Crystal Shores Casino!
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