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The Elwha River Casino has been one of the smaller “slot parlors” among the tribal casinos in Washington state. That’s about to change with a massive expansion now underway that will more than double the property’s size.
Within all that new space is coming not only more gaming terminals but several new amenities and job opportunities for people in the area. When complete, the new facility will be an entertainment hub for guests on the Olympic Peninsula.
Washington Elwha River Casino expansion details
Since it opened in 2009, the casino near Port Angeles has offered fewer than 150 gaming machines over its 10,000 square feet of space. The new expansion, which will cover over 12,000 square feet of area, will more than double that number to 300 terminals.
Currently, the casino offers a few “grab and go” dining options. Seating only accommodates a small number of people. Again, that is about to change. The new space will accommodate a full restaurant. Both indoor and outdoor seating options will be available.
Adjacent to the new restaurant with an expanded menu will be a live entertainment area. The casino plans to offer karaoke and live music in the space.
The casino will also serve alcohol for the first time in its history. Because of the new amenities, the casino plans to increase its staff by about 15 to 20 employees. That would represent an increase of nearly 50% at the top end.
Capacity in the space will nearly quadruple when the new expansion opens, going from 263 to 875 people. The casino expects to open its new digs early next year, according to Leah Leach of the Peninsula Daily News.
It’s an important step forward for the Class II gaming facility, but the casino hopes to keep the elements of the success that have driven the expansion.
Atmosphere an important consideration for Elwha River Washington
Mike Watson, the facility’s general manager, expressed his sentiment about staying true to the facility’s roots to Leach.
“We’re the little casino that could…” Leach said. “We’ve been fortunate with the guest base we’ve had the last 13 years. We don’t want to lose our identity as we expand.”
The expansion provides opportunities for that guest base to grow along with the casino. Starting next year, the property will be one that people can enjoy whether they want to hit the slots or not.
