Operator News
US – WarHorse Gaming wants to bring racino to DeVent Center in Norfolk
By Phil - 19 July 2021
WarHorse Gaming, the gaming arm of the Ho-Chunk tribe, wants to bring a five furlong horse racing track and racino to DeVent Center in Norfolk in Northeast Nebraska.
WarHorse Norfolk is anticipated to contribute roughly $2.1 million in annual tax revenue to Norfolk and Madison County and employ roughly 250 individuals. With plans for nearly 500 gaming positions and a sports book, the state’s property tax relief fund could see an increase of as much as $8.4m annually from the future Norfolk casino.
Ho-Chunk CEO Lance Morgan said: “The Norfolk has a long track record of supporting horse racing, but isn’t served with a track in the community. We hope to bring the excitement, entertainment and significant economic development that will come with fully developing the site”.
It will officially apply for a racing license this week ahead of breaking ground on construction of the new track and revamping of the current structures.
“The community development benefits are clear,” said Josh Moenning, Mayor of Norfolk. “The project attracts new investment from a northeast Nebraska-based business, is part of the solution to reducing property taxes, increases tourism and spurs new economic activity, and adds to the growing mix of entertainment and recreation venues that are making Norfolk a vibrant and dynamic place to live and visit. Beyond that, it allows local racing enthusiasts to stay closer to home to enjoy the sport, keeps money in the local economy, and represents one of the single largest business investments in Norfolk in recent years.”
In addition to the proposed Norfolk facility, WarHorse Gaming will be responsible for casino management and gaming operations at South Sioux City, Lincoln Race Course and Horsemen’s Park in Omaha. The Omaha and Lincoln properties are a partnership with the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, who are the owners of the horseracing tracks at those locations.
Though still in the planning stages, WarHorse Gaming anticipates construction on the track and facility could begin later this year, with full operations beginning in the spring of 2022.
