Oregon tribes expand casinos amid economic woes

Wednesday, August 13, 2008  

Tribes in Oregon aren't letting concerns about the economy affect their casino plans even though the downturn is definitely having an affect on business.

The Coquille Tribe spent $40 million to add a hotel and slot machines to the Mill Casino. But revenues have not grown since the fourth quarter of 2007, an executive said.

The Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians recently went from 10,000 square-feet to 80,000 square-feet at the Three Rivers Casino. More people are visiting the bigger facility though Chairman Bob Garcia attributes the rise to local gamblers.

The Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Indians is still moving forward with a $40 million expansion of the Seven Feathers Casino and Hotel Resort even though revenues have failed to meet expectations for the first time in 15 years, the tribe's attorney said.

Get the Story:
Tribal casinos fare well, but still feel pinch (The Eugene Register-Guard 8/13)