The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and its Four Winds Casinos celebrated the unveiling of an expanded gaming floor at Four Winds South Bend in Indiana. This 98,000-square feet venue now boasts an impressive array of offerings, including 1,900 slot machines, 27 table games, a new high-limit area, and additional cashier facilities. With the completion of this expansion, Four Winds South Bend aims to elevate the gaming experience for its patrons in the Midwest. The project, initially delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic, has also created numerous job opportunities.
Expansion of Gaming Floor:
The newly expanded gaming floor at Four Winds South Bend showcases the addition of 11 table games and 850 slot machines, which encompass popular titles like Dragon Link, Cash Express, Big Fish, Buffalo Link, and Wheel of Fortune. A dedicated video poker section has been introduced, featuring 56 games. This expansion allows Four Winds South Bend to offer a broader range of gaming options to its visitors, catering to diverse preferences.
Tribal Chairwoman’s Reflection:
Rebecca Richards, the tribal chairwoman of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, expressed pride in the growth of Four Winds Casinos over the past 15 years. She acknowledged the collective effort of the casino operations team and all Four Winds team members, as well as the invaluable contributions of project managers, general contractors, construction workers, and vendors. The expansion of Four Winds South Bend stands as a significant milestone for the tribe.
COO’s Perspective:
Frank Freedman, the chief operating officer of Four Winds Casinos, emphasized the unveiling of the expanded gaming floor as a glimpse of what awaits visitors in the future. With a commitment to offering distinctive and exceptional experiences, Four Winds Casinos aims to set new benchmarks for gaming in the Midwest. Freedman acknowledged the instrumental role played by the dedicated staff in providing excellent service, contributing to the success and reputation of the Four Winds brand.
Upcoming Hotel Tower:
The expanded gaming floor is just one facet of the extensive development taking place at Four Winds South Bend. The casino resort is also constructing a remarkable 23-story hotel tower, set to be completed in the first quarter of 2023. This tower will house 317 hotel rooms, including 83 suites, and will feature luxurious amenities such as a spa, a convention area with a ballroom and meeting spaces, a café, and an outdoor swimming pool. The completion of the hotel tower will further enhance the resort experience for guests.
Job Creation and Pandemic Challenges:
The expansion of Four Winds South Bend has had a positive impact on employment. The project has already generated 350 construction jobs, and once the construction is concluded, an additional 350 to 400 new jobs will be created at the casino resort. This development is a significant boost to the local economy and demonstrates Four Winds’ commitment to supporting the community. Despite initial delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and workforce challenges, the project is now progressing smoothly.
Sportsbook Addition:
In November, Four Winds South Bend announced the launch of its sportsbook, featuring six 24-hour sportsbook kiosks on the gaming floor. This addition provides an exciting opportunity for sports enthusiasts to engage with their favorite teams and events while enjoying the casino’s amenities. The sportsbook further diversifies the entertainment offerings at Four Winds South Bend, catering to a broader audience.
Indiana Sports Betting Performance:
Although Indiana’s sports betting handle for July decreased by 19% compared to June, amounting to $206.6 million, there was still a notable 6.2% increase year-on-year when compared to July 2021. Indiana’s sportsbooks have amassed a total wagering volume of $2.5 billion in the first seven months of 2022. Moreover, the taxable revenue generated by Indiana bookmakers in July reached $20.9 million, exhibiting a significant 32.3% increase from the previous month and a notable 19.4% increase year-on-year.
The expansion of Four Winds South Bend’s gaming floor, coupled with the forthcoming completion of a grand hotel tower, exemplifies the commitment of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and Four Winds Casinos to providing an unparalleled entertainment experience. The addition of table games, slot machines, and a dedicated video poker section showcases the casino’s commitment to meeting the diverse preferences of its visitors. As construction progresses and job opportunities multiply, Four Winds South Bend aims to continue its upward trajectory as a premier gaming destination in the Midwest.