The Spokane Tribe of Washington is moving forward with plans for an off-reservation casino.

The tribe wants to build a casino, hotel and other properties near the Spokane International Airport and Fairchild Air Force Base. The Federal Aviation Administration has determined that the project won't interfere with air navigation.

“This important review and clearance puts the Spokane Tribe’s plans for a major development on the West Plains another step closer to completion,” Chairman Greg Abrahamson said in a press release. “This exciting project will bring thousands of much needed construction and permanent jobs to our region not only for Tribal members but for all sectors of the community."

The tribe is proceeding under the two-part determination section of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. In addition to federal approval, the state governor will be required to sign off on the project.

Spokane County has agreed not to oppose the casino, which would be located in Airway Heights. The Kalispel Tribe already operates an off-reservation casino in Airway Heights, one of three that has been approved under the two-part determination process.

Get the Story:
n brief: FAA approves tribe’s design plans [first item] (The Spokesman Review 11/18)