The Elwha River Casino in Port Angeles, Washington, announced the addition of more than 12,000 square feet of space converting a small grill into a larger restaurant, and the addition of 300 gaming terminals in an expansion that more than doubles the area of the casino, which opened in March 2009 with 10,000 square feet.
Despite the fact that the casino will in fact expand, management aims to keep the intimate atmosphere of the property, while offering patrons more, according to General Manager Mike Watson. “We’ve been fortunate with the guest base we’ve had the last 13 years. We don’t want to lose our identity as we expand”, Peninsula Daily News reported.
Construction began March 2 with a groundbreaking ceremony, and is expected to be completed early next year.
The casino was closed from March to October in 2020 due to COVID-19, and reopened with every other gaming machine turned off. It is now operating at 100% capacity – 263 people – with all 147 machines available. Capacity will increase to 875 people and there will be 300 machines on the gaming floor.
The River’s Edge Bar & Lounge now seats about 10 people. After the renovations, its capacity will be extended to between 80 and 100 diners with both indoor and outdoor seating, and will offer a new menu and live entertainment area for both bands and karaoke. Parking space will also be added, as well as space for RVs.
Woodstone, Inc., of Minnesota, a Native American-owned construction company, will provide the construction management oversight.