New Haven, a city in Indiana with ambitions of becoming a more prominent tourist destination, may soon see a significant development that aligns with Mayor Steve McMichael’s vision. A newsletter released by Hannah News Service last Friday revealed that the Rising Star Casino Resort, currently located on the banks of the Ohio River in southeast Indiana, is contemplating a move northwards to New Haven.
Casino’s potential new home:
According to the newsletter, discussions about relocating the casino to the Fort Wayne area have been ongoing, with Full House Resorts, Inc. CEO Dan Lee mentioning the possibility as early as 2017. Rising Star Casino Resort, which sits in Ohio County near Cincinnati, has seen a decrease in revenue, sparking the need for a new, more potentially lucrative location.
Zach Washler, New Haven’s community development director, confirmed that Mayor McMichael is proactive about this development. He has been in talks with city council members to rally support for this initiative. As Wane 15 reports, Washler highlighted the multifaceted benefits of adding a casino to New Haven, stating, “It adds a tourist destination, social hub, and an entertainment venue, positively impacting the economic landscape of New Haven.”
The addition of a casino in New Haven, a city of approximately 16,000 residents, would mark another attraction to its growing list of tourist spots. Interestingly, Washler made it clear that the proposed casino would not be connected with the upcoming Fields of Grace, a multi-sport fieldhouse project that will also include residential, retail, and entertainment spaces, with the International Harvester Museum serving as a cultural highlight.
Revenue concerns and relocation justifications:
Rising Sun casino currently generates the least revenue among Full House Resorts’ properties. The potential move to New Haven is seen as a strategic decision to tap into the larger market provided by Indiana’s second-largest city, which could promise higher revenue streams.
Currently, New Haven is home to Winner’s Circle, a satellite wagering and sportsbook pub operated by Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & Casino, located off SR 930 and Minnich Road. The potential new casino site could be positioned nearby, changing the city’s landscape significantly from the static riverboat currently residing in Rising Sun.
The shift from a riverboat to an inland casino became possible in 2015 when new legislation permitted the transfer of a riverboat license to an inland license, which would be essential for any property in New Haven. Washler mentioned that more details would be forthcoming after the 2025 State Legislative Session. He emphasized the importance of community engagement, promising that community listening sessions would be organized once more information is available to ensure the community’s interests are considered. He said: “We are sensitive to the community, and we will have community listening sessions once more information becomes available.”