Ho-Chunk Inc. and WarHorse Gaming announced a $50 million project to develop a new racino in South Sioux City, Nebraska, marking the state's sixth and final casino authorized through 2020 legislation.

The development will feature a 5/8 mile racetrack and grandstand near Interstate 129 and 152nd Street at C Avenue, approximately 1.2 miles east of the former Atokad Downs location. The project aims to revive horse racing in the area while introducing a boutique casino experience.

Key Project Details:

• Initial Investment: $50 million
• Location: South Sioux City, Nebraska
• Features: New racetrack, grandstand, and casino
• Construction Start: Spring 2025
• Future Expansion Possibilities: Hotel, larger gaming space, events center

The development is strategically planned to complement, not compete with, the tribe's existing WinnaVegas Casino Resort in Sloan, Iowa. According to Ho-Chunk CEO Lance Morgan, most revenue is expected to come from Hard Rock Sioux City, Iowa, rather than affecting WinnaVegas operations.

The project follows Nebraska's 2020 gaming expansion, which allows casino gambling at licensed horse racetracks conducting live racing. The law aims to reinvigorate the state's horse racing industry and generate tax revenue for property tax relief. Dakota County and South Sioux City will receive 25% of the casino revenue tax for schools and infrastructure investments.

Ho-Chunk Inc., which also operates WarHorse casinos in Omaha and Lincoln, helped secure the 2020 casino referendum with approximately $6 million in campaign contributions through the "Keep the Money in Nebraska" initiative.

Related Articles

Previous Articles