North Carolina's Catawba Two Kings Casino development moves forward with full launch targeted for 2027

As construction on the Catawba Two Kings Casino moves into its second year, the Catawba Nation Gaming Authority confirmed that the $1 billion project is progressing on schedule, with the first phase expected to open by spring 2026.

The development, one of Cleveland County’s most capital-intensive private investments in recent history, is taking shape along a major travel corridor in Kings Mountain. When the initial facility opens, it will house over 1,300 slot machines and 22 table games, as well as a restaurant, bar, and sports betting kiosks.

Officials from the Catawba Nation say the project has broader implications than gaming. Vice President Trent Troxel of the Catawba Nation Gaming Authority said the casino’s impact is already being felt locally and for the tribe, with plans to grow its workforce substantially.

"Right now, we have around 490 employees. We're going to hire 2,000 more employees between now and 2027, when we open up the permanent casino," Troxel said, as per a WCNC report.

The hiring targets are tied to the development’s second phase — a permanent casino complex expected to open a year after the launch of the initial facility. The temporary gaming facility in Kings Mountain will be decommissioned once the first phase is operational.

Tribal leaders have also pointed to the role of the casino in providing financial support for services within the Catawba Nation. Chief Brian Harris said income generated from the project is intended to fund housing, healthcare, and education for tribal members — areas he noted had limited support in previous generations.

With construction ongoing, the casino is expected to compete in the regional gaming market. "Just come out, give us a try. We have a friendly staff, we're safe and we're clean, so just come out, give us a try," Troxel said.

The development, which broke ground in 2023, continues under a multi-phase schedule. Despite the project’s scale, officials said work remains on track and in line with the targeted timeline.

The project has drawn support from local officials who anticipate regional economic benefits once full operations begin. In addition to its hiring goals, the casino is expected to contribute to increased economic activity in Cleveland County and the surrounding area through its visitor traffic and service contracts.

The Catawba Nation maintains full control of the casino through its gaming authority.