"Snoqualmie Casino is set to open its doors in less than two months to plenty of fan fare. While excitement looms over the opening, a bit of anxiety from residents and city officials of both Snoqualmie and North Bend also exists.

Concerns over what kind of clientele the casino will bring has some wondering whether its addition will actually be a good thing for the community. We think it will.

For starters, Snoqualmie Casino will employ more than 1,300 people, most of them full-time. Many of these jobs pay decently and include full health-insurance benefits.

The casino also appears to be well on its way to supporting lots of community events as a good corporate neighbor. It sponsored both Snoqualmie Railroad Days and the Festival at Mount Si last month, and will be a key sponsor at Issaquah Salmon Days next month. Sponsorship funds are what make events free or affordable for all.

Some are concerned about the increase in traffic that will result from the casino. Since exit 27 off I-90, where the casino is located, doesn’t have an exit for west-bound traffic, those on their way to the casino will need to get off in North Bend and travel down Southeast North Bend Way. While this may increase traffic some, the good majority of those traveling to the casino will likely come from the west. Those forced to travel through North Bend will get a look at businesses downtown they might not have seen otherwise. Hopefully they’ll stop and shop."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Snoqualmie Casino will benefit the community (The SnoValley Star 9/11)

Another Story:
Snoqualmie Casino an impressive sight (The SnoValley Star 9/11)