Operator News
US – Indiana Gaming Commission grants Vigo licence to Churchill Downs
By Phil - 18 November 2021
The Indiana Gaming Commission has awarded a casino license for Vigo County to Churchill Downs to build and operate the Queen of Terre Haute casino, beating off competition from Full House Resorts.
Projects by Hard Rock and Premiere Gaming fell at an earlier hurdle.
The Queen of Terre Haute will feature up to 1,000 slot machines, 50 table games, a 125-room luxury hotel, a state-of-the-art TwinSpires sportsbook and several food & beverage offerings. From its name (inspired by Terre Haute’s nickname as the Queen City of the Wabash Valley) to concepts and design features across the facility, the Queen of Terre Haute will reflect the unique heritage of Vigo County and the surrounding region.
An economic impact study conducted by economists at Purdue University estimates that the Queen of Terre Haute will generate $190m in annual regional economic impact, including 1,000 construction jobs and 500 permanent jobs. According to the study, the project is expected to deliver a two per cent annual increase in the West Central Indiana gross regional product.
“Churchill Downs has a 147-year track record of offering extraordinary entertainment experiences and has significant expertise developing premier casino and gaming properties throughout the United States,” said Bill Carstanjen, Chief Executive Officer of CDI. “We are proud to offer our vision for this world-class casino, a true destination resort designed to draw visitors and economic activity from across the Midwest to Terre Haute.”
