Supplier News
US – Chukchansi Gold to reopen before the end of the year
By Phil - 21 July 2015
The much anticipated grand re-opening of Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino is on schedule to occur before the end of 2015 in California, between Fresno and Yosemite National Park.
The Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians, through its wholly owned tribal enterprise, Chukchansi Economic Development Authority has passed a significant milestone necessary to re-open their world class venue including hiring the man who will oversee the operation.
The Tribe is now in active discussions and expects to finalize an agreement with the NIGC that will enable the facility to re-open expeditiously.
CEDA has entered into a term sheet with certain lenders that contemplates up to $35m to re-open the facility, bearing interest at 12 per cent.
CEDA has hired Christian Goode from Ivory Gaming to manage the day-to-day operations of the CGRC as the Chief Operating Officer. Prior to founding Ivory Gaming, Mr. Goode was President of Genting Americas and brings over two decades of experience developing and operating the best in gaming facilities in North America. During his tenure at Genting, he was responsible for all aspects of development, construction, and operations for the Genting Group—Resorts World in the Americas, managing an investment/operations portfolio of over $2bn. Specifically, Mr. Goode spearheaded the development of the $880m Resorts World New York City project, which became the largest grossing slot facility in the world in less than two years of operations.
“I look forward to working on behalf of the Tribe and its members to restore this facility as the destination of choice in the Central Valley,” said Mr. Goode, “We expect to re-open and operate this world class facility in a manner that the tribe can be proud of and one that provides a first rate experience to every guest.”
Tribal Chairman Reggie Lewis added: “These are just the first steps on our journey to provide our Tribal members with opportunity and economic stability that will pave the way to self sufficiency for generations. We are very excited to have secured world-class partners to assist us in achieving our goals.”
