Churchill Downs bids for Indiana casino

Churchill Downs has submitted a proposal to develop the Queen of Terre Haute Casino Resort, a destination gaming facility in the US state of Indiana.

Churchill has also filed an application to the Indiana Gaming Commission seeking Indiana’s open casino licence for Vigo County.

“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 CEO Bill Carstanjen.

“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.”

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 and 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.

“We appreciate the local encouragement we’ve received as we’ve evaluated this opportunity,” said Carstanjen.

“In the days ahead, we look forward to making our case to the Indiana Gaming Commission as to why our proposal to build the Queen of Terre Haute is in the best interest of the residents and businesses of Terre Haute, Vigo County and the state of Indiana.”

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.