Fonner Park waiting for Legislature's final approval so temporary casino construction can start
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Once the necessary events occur, “then we are poised to start construction with Mother Nature then being one of the largest obstacles,” Kotulak said.
Last April, Elite Casino Resorts, based in Iowa, was chosen as Fonner Park’s casino partner. As such, it will construct and manage the $100 million Grand Island Casino Resort at Fonner Park.
The temporary building will be used during the two years the casino and resort are being constructed.
Kotulak says the temporary casino will be comfortable. “It’s going to be the most beautiful metal structure you’ve seen with neon and plush carpet and chairs and parking. It will be gorgeous — as gorgeous as a metal structure can be.”
Fonner Park wants casino guests to have a good feeling while the permanent facility is being constructed, he said.
The permanent facility will include a casino gaming floor, hotel and attached parking garage.
Chief Industries is “involved in the construction process” but will not actually be the contractor, Kotulak said.
Kotulak had hoped that gaming could be offered before the end of this year’s racing meet, but that now seems unlikely. “I would say that’s 20-to-1 at this point,” he said.
