By Renata Clo | Arizona Republic
The Gila River Indian Community is betting that its fourth casino, which broke ground just south of Chandler on Monday, will help drive revenue and create more than 650 new jobs.
The tribe announced the new casino project this summer after Arizona’s Native American tribes concluded a five-year negotiation and inked an amended tribal compact with the state.
The agreement allowed casino expansions and tribes to operate thousands of new slot machines, open at least four new casinos and allow bets on new table games.
The Gila River Indian Community already operates Wild Horse Pass and Lone Butte casinos in Chandler as well as Vee Quiva in the Phoenix community of Laveen.
Now, the tribe’s fourth casino, named Santan Mountain for its view from the site, is set to open in 18 to 24 months just south of Loop 202 in Chandler, near the southeast corner of Gilbert Road and Hunt Highway.
Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis told The Arizona Republic he expects the $150 million project to help boost economic recovery after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has deeply affected Native Americans.
