Wisconsin: Ho-Chunk Nation to break ground on Beloit Casino this fall

The City of Beloit is gearing up for the construction of a new Ho-Chunk Nation casino, scheduled to commence this fall. Representatives from the Ho-Chunk Nation, the City of Beloit, and Visit Beloit have unveiled fresh renderings of the upcoming casino, which is presently in the development phase.

Positioned between Willowbrook and Colley roads, the forthcoming casino will feature over 1,500 slot machines, numerous table games, and a sports betting area. Accompanying the gaming facilities will be an 18-story hotel boasting more than 300 rooms, a versatile convention center, and diverse dining options, including upscale restaurants. Despite the proximity of Rockford's Hard Rock Casino, Ho-Chunk Nation consultant Collin Price is optimistic about the coexistence of both establishments.

"In terms of the gaming market, we see our competitors elevating their game, which is how it should be," Price remarked. "Everyone’s offering a unique product, and that’s what we’re trying to do here. We can all offer something really special for the guest to pick and choose what they want."

The casino development is expected to generate over 1,500 jobs, with an additional 3,000 employment opportunities created during the construction phase. The casino will also give two percent of its yearly revenue to the City of Beloit, estimated to be about $3-5 million. The city will share that with Rock Co.

City manager Jerry Gabrielatos sees the casino as a catalyst for enhancing Beloit's appeal as a residential destination.

"With this, it’s not just the casino; it’s the hotel, it’s the convention center, it’s the restaurants that will be there," Gabrielatos explained. "This creates a sort of spectrum of opportunities all in one place, combined with everything we already have here."

Visit Beloit CEO Celestino Ruffini envisions Beloit becoming a premier destination in Wisconsin and the greater Chicago area. He believes the project will revolutionize local tourism, offering an unparalleled experience for visitors and residents alike.

"We really look forward to people coming to enjoy gaming and entertainment and meetings and conventions, but while they’re here, taking advantage of all the other businesses and opportunities and events that take place in the Beloit area," Ruffini expressed.

The construction process is set to commence pending approval of building permits, with completion expected by 2026. Meanwhile, the Hard Rock Casino Rockford prepares for its grand opening this fall.