The Indian Gaming Association joined the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, along with S&K Gaming, on May 5 to celebrate the opening of 400 Horses Casino in Polson, Montana. Tribal officials called the project a major investment in the region and a significant step for tribal government gaming operations.
Leaders from tribal governments across the area attended the event alongside elders, community members and gaming representatives. The celebration featured cultural performances, blessings and remarks focused on economic growth and tribal sovereignty.
This beautiful facility reflects the strength and vision of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and their commitment to investing in the future of their people,” Indian Gaming Association Chairman David Z. Bean said in a statement. “Tribal gaming continues to create opportunity, support families, and strengthen communities across Indian Country while protecting and exercising tribal sovereignty.”
A new destination near Flathead Lake
The new entertainment venue covers 35,000 square feet and sits near Highway 83 and the Polson Airport. Visitors will find nearly 300 gaming machines, expanded guest services and outdoor patio areas overlooking Flathead Lake and the Mission Mountains.
Inside the property, guests can also visit the 371 restaurant, named after the deepest point of Flathead Lake. Tribal leaders said the casino was designed to combine entertainment with cultural identity, including exhibits that share the history and traditions of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
Casino project brings jobs and economic growth
Officials described the development as one of the tribe’s largest recent economic projects. Beyond the casino itself, leaders highlighted the employment opportunities connected to the facility and its construction.
More than 200 local jobs are tied to casino operations, with additional seasonal positions expected during the busy summer months. Construction of the project also created work for regional contractors and trade workers before the property opened ahead of schedule.
“Tribal gaming is about much more than entertainment,” Bean said. “It is about creating opportunities for future generations, strengthening tribal economies, and ensuring tribes have the ability to provide for their communities through their own success and leadership.”
400 Horses name honors tribal history
The name 400 Horses honors Chief Alexander of the Pend d’Oreille people, a historical leader remembered throughout the region. Tribal officials said the project was built to recognize that legacy while creating a long-term source of revenue and opportunity for the community.
Bean said the opening also demonstrated the importance of collaboration among tribal leaders and gaming organizations across Indian Country.
“The Indian gaming industry has always been built on unity, relationships, and tribal leadership working together,” Bean said. “The dedication shown by the Tribal Council, S&K Gaming leadership, employees, construction teams, and the entire community made this vision possible. This facility stands as another example of what tribal nations can accomplish through sovereignty, determination, and a commitment to their people.”
Featured image: By Montanabw – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=20142911
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