The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has approved a resolution to purchase 800 acres in Cherokee County, North Carolina, for a Class II casino. The tribe plans to invest $6.4 million on the parcel, which includes trust and non-trust land.  The tribe already operates a casino in the Smokey Mountains, Harrah's Cherokee.

"We need to secure the land and continue planning, including market and financial feasibility," Principal Chief Michell Hicks told the Cherokee Scout, adding that the project will "move forward in 2010" and possibly open in 2011.

Hicks said it will take 12 to 18 months to build the facility, which may also include a cultural heritage center and historical museum, veterans' memorial, nature conservancy and railway link or airport.

"It will definitely result in a few hundred jobs," Hicks said.

"Hopefully, it will spur further growth and induce confidence in investing in our community," said County Manager David Badger.

By GGB Staff

Staff writers for Global Gaming Business magazine. Las Vegas, Nevada.