Catawba Nation casino project in North Carolina on schedule to open in spring 2026

Construction on the Catawba Two Kings Casino project in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, is moving forward steadily a year after breaking ground, with developers saying the $1 billion investment remains on schedule to open in spring 2026, according to an update from Yes! Weekly.

The development, one of the largest private investments in Cleveland County’s history, is expected to transform the Charlotte-area entertainment landscape and strengthen the Catawba Nation’s role in the regional gaming market.

The first phase will open next year and feature more than 1,300 slot machines, 22 table games, a full-service restaurant and bar, and sports betting kiosks. The permanent casino with expanded gaming and amenities is planned for 2027, fully replacing the temporary facility that has been operating since 2021.

Employment at the Catawba Two Kings Casino project is set to expand significantly as construction progresses, with 490 workers currently on site and plans to add 2,000 more by 2027, when the main casino is scheduled to open, said Trent Troxel of the Catawba Nation Gaming Authority. The hiring drive would boost the workforce nearly fivefold, providing a major lift to the local economy.

The Catawba Nation says revenues from the project will support housing and healthcare initiatives for tribal members. At last year’s groundbreaking, Catawba Nation Chief Brian Harris said casino revenues would support housing and healthcare for tribal members, providing opportunities not available to earlier generations and demonstrating how gaming profits can aid Indigenous community development.

Located near Charlotte and easily accessible from major highways, the Two Kings Casino aims to attract visitors from across North Carolina and neighboring states. Tribal leaders say the phased approach allows them to build customer loyalty before unveiling the larger resort.