The federal Bureau of Indian Affairs grants the Ho-Chunk Nation approval to build a casino in Beloit.
The proposal will now go before Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers for final approval before construction can begin.
City officials say the project would bring 1,500 jobs to Beloit. The Ho-Chunk Nation plans to build the resort and entertainment center on the southeast corner of Willowbrook and Colley Roads near Interstate 39/90.
City Manager Lori Curtis-Luther said the approval is exciting news for Beloit, but her team is more immediately focused on the COVID-19 state of emergency.
“Our highest priority is doing everything we possibly can to keep our staff and the public safe,” Curtis-Luther said in a statement. “Once this crisis is over, we look forward to celebrating this amazing announcement that will bring much needed future revenue and jobs to Beloit.”
Ho-Chunk officials are still mulling over multiple options for the casino project, which could include a hotel, water park, convention center, entertainment space and retail areas.
Governor Evers has previously expressed support for the proposal and indicated he would sign it. The ongoing coronavirus outbreak could delay how quickly he reviews the project.
