HOLLAND (WHTC) — The Gun Lake Casino in Wayland is undergoing a $76 million expansion, which will nearly double its size.
Construction started in January and will wrap in 2017, adding 73,000 square feet of space to the existing 83,000. A key change will be the doubling of space for the entertainment lounge, Stage 131.
New features will include a high-limit gaming room and a 300-seat buffet.
General manager Brent Arena said the buffet will feature chefs working in view of patrons for a more interactive experience. The expanded menus will include american, Italian, Mexican and Asian dishes as well as healthy choices, he said. The buffet will be open to all ages, he said; the casino is only open to those 21 and older.
In addition to the expansion of the public spaces, Arena said, the project will allow for improvements in facilities for staff members. Staff will see a new dining room — each employee receives one free meal per shift — a lounge, a breakroom, cafe, and personal lockers.
Expanding the gaming area will reduce crowded conditions, he said. Some extra space will be devoted to adding machines and tables for a total of 2,050 gaming machines and 42 game tables.
The changes will employ as many as 400 construction workers and will create 100 more casino jobs, Arena said. the casion currently employs more than 800, he said.
Clark Construction is managing the project. During construction, the northwest parking lot will remain closed.
The casino opened five years ago. The expansion is a major step forward, said John Shagonaby, CEO of the Gun Lake Tribal Gaming Authority, emphasizing that a Michigan-base company is managing construction.
