Indiana: city’s zoning board green lights Hard Rock Casino Gary planned location

Hard Rock Casino Gary’s zoning recommendation, which last week was approved by the Gary Plan Commission, has now been endorsed by the Gary Board of Zoning Appeals. 

The board approved the rezoning of roughly 30 acres of vacant land immediately south of the Borman Expressway at the Burr Street exit for a casino development, instead of light industrial use, NWI reports.

Now, the plan heads to the Gary Common Council—the city's legislative body—for final approval, possibly as soon as Aug. 20.

The Common Council additionally must adopt a resolution definitively authorizing the relocation of the Majestic Star casinos from Lake Michigan to the proposed casino site at Burr Street and 29th Avenue for the Indiana Gaming Commission to sign off on the move when it meets Aug. 28.

Representatives of Majestic Star owner Spectacle Entertainment told the zoning board that if it receives all the required regulatory approvals, the company hopes to break ground on the $400 million project in late September or October, with a projected opening on Dec. 31, 2020.

Two weeks ago, Spectacle officials also told the Gary Plan Commission that they hoped to then construct the hotel and parking facility within two to three years.

"We're committed to this project and committed to doing it in two phases," said John Keeler, Spectacle Vice President and General Counsel.

The new facility will be the 13th Hard Rock Casino in North America. It will feature up to 2,764 gaming positions; a sports book; four restaurants, including a Hard Rock Cafe; numerous bars; and a 2,000-seat Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, according to Spectacle.