Kaw Tribes Plans New Oklahoma Casino and Adds Off Track Betting

The Kaw Tribe is busy finding new ways to expand on the gaming scene in Kay County Oklahoma. Currently the tribe operates one of eight casinos in the area.

Just this week, they are announcing plans to construct another casino in the county and are introducing an Off-Track Betting venue at their Kaw Southwind Casino location in Newkirk.

In a press release issued by the tribe, John MacClain, General Manager said, "We're excited to add yet another amenity to our growing market. With the grand opening ceremony of our new improved poker room a few weeks ago, I'm pleased that our team has finished our pari-mutual room in time for the Breeder's Cup."

MacClain said that they will be operating OTB seven days a week from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. with simulcast racing available from more than 30 race tracks all over the country.

"Our new OTB room is yet another unique offering that only the SouthWind Casino brings to the table," he said. "Bingo used to be the only exclusive feature we had that our competition doesn't offer. With OTB we continue to improve and expand that difference."

In late August, SouthWind Casino also opened SouthWing Roost. It offers fried chicken, catfish, and other great food. He said that they will continue to add venues and games that the guests have expressed interest in.

In addition the tribe is hoping to move forward with plans to construct a casino on 21.25 acres of property at the intersection of Interstate 35 and US 177 near Braman, Oklahoma.

The Kay County Commissioners and Braman leaders have signed letters supporting the project.

Currently, the property is home to the Kanza Travel Plaza, a modern truck stop and gas station with a restaurant, retail shop and seven-unit motel.

A 300,000 gallon water tower is being constructed on the property which is scheduled for completion by the summer of 2010. It will provide an uninterrupted supply of water to the property and to rural areas to the north and east.

There is the possibility that Harrah's may be allowed to build a casino up the road near Mulvane, Kansas.

If this happens the tribe says there casino would be a smaller 9,000 to 10,000 square foot facility employing 75 to 100 persons.

However, if no major casino is built south of Wichita, plans are for a larger 36,000 square foot facility employing 200 to 250 persons.

It could be sometime before the project is fully off the ground and running.

The approval process for such a project is described as a long and rigorous beginning with an application to the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Environmental assessments that examine water and air quality; wastewater treatment; traffic; socio economic conditions, environmental justice; wildlife concerns and other factors have been undertaken.

The assessments found negligible adverse effects and many positive effects such as adding jobs to an area that is losing population.

In their letter of support, the Kay County Board of County Commissioners stated "this project would greatly benefit not only the town of Braman but also Kay County as it would bring much needed employment opportunities to our County."

In addition to support from the Kay County Commissioners, The Kaw Nation has received support from neighboring tribes and from Jerry Johnston, the Mayor of Braman.

For a list of current casinos in the area Click here

For pictures click here