Horseshoe Casino Wants Expansion of Hammond Operations

HAMMOND, Indiana — As reported by the Post-Tribune: “Horseshoe Casino announced plans Thursday to build another casino boat in Hammond, which could potentially bring hundreds of jobs and
Inside the new Blue Chip Casino  a significant amount of tax revenue to the city.

“The proposed expansion would cost the casino hundreds of millions of dollars and would bring about 400 permanent jobs to Hammond, said Rick Mazer, senior vice president and general manager of Horseshoe Casino. It would also bring hundreds of construction jobs to the area while the casino is being built.

“On Thursday, The Port Authority Board and Hammond’s Redevelopment Commission met to discuss the proposed expansion. Both groups unanimously approved the deal, leaving only the Redevelopment Authority as the final step before the city allows the expansion to occur. The Redevelopment Authority will vote Monday.

“Once the city approves, the board of directors for Harrah’s Entertainment Inc. will vote, as early as next week, Mazer said.

“If all goes well, Hammond residents could be walking into a new casino in two years.

“...The deal could have a downside. In order to create the expansion, which will be situated on the lakefront adjoining the Horseshoe Casino, the city will temporarily close the marina.

“...Mazer expects construction to close the marina for one season.

“...Horseshoe employs about 2,150 at its Hammond casino, which boasts the highest limits and highest odds in Indiana. Patrons may bet up to $100,000 per baccarat game.

“...The Horseshoe expansion would follow the Northwest Indiana trend of megacasinos.

“Michigan City’s Blue Chip Casino opened doors last month to an expanded, Las Vegas-style casino…"