After years of anticipation and planning, the Ho-Chunk Nation is gearing up to kick off construction of what will be a transformative development for the regional gaming industry, the nation, and the city of Beloit, Wisconsin: the new $405 million Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit casino complex. Set to break ground in fall 2024, the project is being designed by leading national hospitality design firm HBG Design, and will mark a significant economic boost for the Wisconsin region.
The approval granted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs in May 2022 paved the way for the construction of the casino on a 33-acre site at Willowbrook and Colley roads near Interstate 39-90. This decision represents the culmination of years of federal processes and discussions and negotiations between tribal representatives, local authorities and community stakeholders.
“We are thrilled to advance our development plans in time for a fall groundbreaking, moving forward with the final design by HBG Design, the infrastructure work and construction,” says Robert Mudd, executive director of business for the Ho-Chunk Nation. “In the gaming market, our competitors are stepping up, as they should. Each offers a unique product, and that’s our aim too.”
The construction timeline is expected to span 18 to 24 months. A large 1,500-to-1,800-slot casino with 44 table games will open as early as feasibly possible, followed by an 18-story, 300-key hotel tower; multi-purpose convention center, and multiple food and beverage venues. Plans also include sports betting facilities, available through an agreement between the Ho-Chunk Nation and the state of Wisconsin, showcasing the project’s commitment to offering a comprehensive entertainment experience geared to customer interests.
One of the most significant aspects of the development is its potential to generate jobs and revenue for Beloit and Rock County. During construction, the project will create an estimated 3,000 direct and indirect jobs. Once operational, it will offer around 1,500 permanent positions. Furthermore, the casino’s revenue-sharing agreements with the city and county are expected to provide up to $3 million annually, contributing to local infrastructure improvements and community services.
Beyond its economic impact, the complex promises to enhance Beloit’s tourism and hospitality sectors. With its expansive convention center and other amenities, the city aims to attract business conventions, expos, concerts and more, further solidifying its position as a regional hub for entertainment and commerce.
This is the seventh casino owned and operated by the Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin, joining Ho-Chunk Gaming Black River Falls, Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison, Ho-Chunk Gaming Nekoosa, Ho-Chunk Gaming Tomah, Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells in Baraboo and Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg.
Specializing in the design of high-profile large-scale resort destinations, HBG Design has extensive knowledge of the Ho-Chunk Gaming brand, having crafted and delivered multiple successful architecture and interior designs for the Ho-Chunk Nation. HBG previously led the planning, design and delivery of Ho-Chunk Gaming’s expansions and renovations across its Wisconsin Dells, Black River Falls and Wittenberg, Wisconsin properties. Those projects were completed in 2018 and 2019.
OWNER-OPERATOR: Ho-Chunk Nation
DESIGNER: HBG Design
