In southern Wisconsin, the City of Beloit and the City of Rockford in Illinois are competing to develop significant casinos. The Ho Chunk Tribe of Wisconsin is proposing a $405m casino plan in Beloit, while Hard Rock International, owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, has proposed a $310m casino in Rockford. Both casinos would feature a range of gaming options, hotels, and entertainment venues. The approval process for each casino differs, with the Rockford casino being developed as a commercial casino and the Beloit casino being developed under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.
The Rockford casino project has received preliminary approval from the Illinois Gaming Control Board, and construction is expected to start in the near future. The Beloit casino project has received approval from the Department of the Interior and is awaiting final approval and the amendment of the Ho Chunk compact with Wisconsin. Construction is expected to begin this year and be completed by the end of 2022.
Both casinos are aware of the potential impact of the other and have proposed phased developments. It is estimated that with both casinos in operation, the revenues for each would be reduced by up to 35%. The timing of each casino’s opening will play a significant role in determining the success of the projects. Hard Rock has an advantage in terms of brand recognition, but the Ho Chunks have the advantage of a lower tax burden. They also have a regional presence and an existing player database.
The Department of the Interior’s approval of the Beloit casino project and any potential delays by the Illinois Gaming Control Board could have significant consequences for the development and competition in this market. Winning the race to open first is seen as crucial for both casinos.
Overall, the development of these casinos highlights the success of tribal gaming and the unique competition between a tribe and its commercial gaming company.
