Nov. 20–The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are embarking on an ambitious expansion plan involving a $27.4 million casino and hotel complex in Evaro and $4.6 million renovation of KwaTaqNuk Resort and Casino in Polson.
S&K Gaming announced this week that construction will begin next year on the two projects.
The 40,000-square-foot facility in Evaro will become the new Gray Wolf Peak Casino and Hotel.
The expansion is part of an effort by S&K Gaming to establish a new gaming and hospitality brand in Western Montana, according to a news release from tribal Communications Director Rob McDonald.
Three feasibility studies have supported expansion at Gray Wolf to capture millions in untapped revenue. In Montana-run casinos, bets are limited to $2 and payouts capped at $800. The tribal casinos will give patrons better access to high-quality gaming entertainment with payouts that regularly reach higher than $500,000, McDonald said.
The new Gray Wolf will replace a facility that opened seven years ago in Evaro. That casino was intended as a temporary structure.
The new hotel will feature 70 rooms, spa amenities and a new restaurant and lounge. There also will be an Eagle Bank outlet, a recreational-vehicle park and a convenience store.
Gaming machines will more than triple from the current 118 machines and more than 140 new jobs will be created, according to the news release.
In Polson, the KwaTaqNuk will receive renovated rooms and an expanded outdoor patio and bar with enhanced infrastructure and environment.
KwaTaqNuk also will drop its Best Western connection.
As Best Western brand-renewal fees came due this fall, S&K Gaming decided to go another direction by pursuing an S&K Gaming brand that better reflects the local community, McDonald said.
Tribal gaming operations differ from privately held casinos because they are organized under the Federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which requires that gaming proceeds go to tribal services such as elder care, education, family support, cultural activities, language preservation and other essential services.
