The Spokane Tribe of Indians says it’s prepared to go ahead on construction of its proposed West Plains casino project should Gov. Jay Inslee announce in its favor.

Newly elected tribal chairwoman Carol Evans says, “With this scale of project, we are looking at a phased build of five to 10 years before competition. We’d want to start construction as soon as possible, following the Governor’s approval.”

The casino is part of what is being called Spokane Tribe Economic Project, or STEP, a mixed-use development planned for 145 acres of Tribal trust land on the West Plains of Spokane County adjacent to the city of Airway Heights.

Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, tribes may build gaming operations on their land if the U.S. Department of Interior first determines the gaming establishment is in the best interest of the tribe and that it’s not detrimental to the community. 

Having consulted with community leaders, local businesses and manufacturers, military installations and other tribes, Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Kevin Washburn determined the STEP project passed these two tests. The Department of the Interior approved the project in June; now Inslee must concur with Interior’s positive analysis before STEP can break ground.

Jamie Smith, a spokeswoman for the governor’s office, said the governor intends to speak extensively with members of the community, considering all viewpoints before making any final decision. Inslee has up to 18 months to decide.

Evans says following the Interior Department’s recent approval, the tribe is optimistic the Governor will approve the plan. 

“Secretary Washburn determined it meets those two necessary criteria,” Evans says. “We are hopeful the governor will reach that same conclusion.”

A number of opponents have spoken out against the project, among them Greater Spokane Incorporated and Spokane County officials who are concerned the project will encroach upon nearby Fairchild Air Force Base, disrupting operations and causing negative economic impact. 

The Spokane Tribe faces other hurdles prior to being able to start construction, mostly in finding the funding for the project which has development costs estimated to exceed $400 million. 

“Currently we don’t have the funding in place, but we would be looking for private sector funding,” says Evans. “Warner Gaming Hospitality will be assisting us in those efforts.”

Evans indicated that design plans for the project are on hold pending the governor’s approval of the casino project. “It’s difficult to plan dimensions, or discuss design aspects without that approval. However, we do have a basic description of what would be included in the development.”

Located immediately northwest of the intersection of U.S. Highway 2 and Craig Road, STEP would include a resort casino with approximately 98,000 square feet of gaming space; a mid-rise 300 room hotel, including pool, spa and wellness center; a parking structure; a lifestyle retail center; commercial facilities; a tribal cultural center; and a tribal police and fire station. 

Evans also noted that the tribe has signed a letter of intent with Las Vegas-based HRHH IP LLC to bring the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino brand to the proposed casino location.  “We are excited to bring the Hard Rock brand to the area,” she says. 

According to a recent press release, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is one of the most widely recognizable names and brands worldwide, listing 23 casino locations throughout the U. S., Canada and certain foreign countries. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is the chain’s flagship property.

Should the project not receive the Governor’s approval, Evans says tribal leaders would want to continue looking into providing other opportunities to meet tribal needs. 

“There is no specific plan, but we would want to focus on whatever could provide the highest rate of return on investment. We have that responsibility to the membership,” says Evans. 

Evans feels strongly that the project will benefit both the tribe and the surrounding community.

 “As a Tribe we have a lot of needs, many of which are not currently being met. Everything from health care, high unemployment, environmental, housing, poverty and issues related to poverty,” says Evans. 

“This project gives us the chance to develop livable communities, places where people can find jobs and housing. Our leaders are looking at opportunities like this that provide the members ways to become more self-sufficient,” she adds. 

“This kind of project has the potential to impact the community and region in a huge way.”