Santa Claus is bringing a casino to Grand Island this year.

The new temporary casino at Fonner Park is expected to be open by Christmas. Fonner Park Chief Executive Officer Chris Kotulak hopes the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission gives final approval of the casino’s operation Dec. 14.

The temporary casino is being built inside the Fonner Park concourse. Work began Sept. 8.

When it opens, it will have 280 slot machines and kiosks for wagering on live and simulcast horse races.

“The Racing and Gaming Commission wanted to make sure that racing had a presence, and I appreciate that, so they’ve asked that we add additional television monitors and some wagering terminals where people can wager on horse racing in addition to whatever casino games they’re playing” in the temporary facility, Kotulak said.