Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has announced the inauguration of the Terre Haute Casino Resort in Terre Haute, Indiana, representing an investment of $290m.

Gaming America was also in attendance at the casino resort opening and will have a feature report out later today.

The resort features 1,000 slot machines, 36 table games and a sportsbook spread across its 400,000-square-foot premises. 

There are several dining options, including the Four Cornered Steakhouse, Rockwood Bar & Grill, The Soda Shoppe, Crossroads Center Bar and High Limit Bar. 

Bill Carstanjen, CDI CEO, said: “Today’s grand opening of Terre Haute Casino Resort is a time to reflect on the promises Churchill Downs made, kept and delivered for this community. An occasion like today feels like the end of all the effort to successfully get us to this point, but it’s actually just the beginning of what this project can do for Vigo County and the State of Indiana.”

The Terre Haute Casino Resort marks Churchill Downs Incorporated's entry into Indiana's entertainment market and extends the company's reach into its 14th state. The remaining amenities, such as a 122-room luxury hotel, rooftop lounge and coffee shop, are slated to open on 15 May 2024.

Construction of the Terre Haute Casino Resort has provided employment opportunities, with nearly 1,000 construction jobs created during the development phase.

Upon completion, the resort is expected to generate approximately 550 permanent full-time and part-time positions. Construction commenced in June 2022 in collaboration with Wilhelm Construction.

In February 2024, Churchill Downs entered into a partnership with SAP America, designating SAP as an official signature partner of Churchill Downs Racetrack, the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks.

Additionally, CDI has announced plans for Club SI, a luxury dining experience at the Kentucky Derby, as part of its $200m renovation project leading up to the 150th running of the event. 

Club SI, formerly known as the 1895 Club, will offer guests an elevated dining experience with views of the renovated Paddock and Paddock Runway.