The Indian Gaming Association joined the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and S&K Gaming on May 5 in celebrating the grand opening of 400 Horses Casino in Polson, Montana. According to a news release, this marks “a major investment in tribal economic development, job creation, and the continued advancement of tribal sovereignty through tribal government gaming.”
“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.”
Near Highway 83 and Polson Airport, the 35,000-square-foot gaming and entertainment destination is one of the largest recent economic development projects for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. The facility features about 300 gaming machines, expanded guest amenities, and outdoor patio areas overlooking Flathead Lake and the Mission Mountains. The 371 restaurant is named after the deepest point of Flathead Lake.
The project was completed ahead of schedule and opened after a community celebration that included tribal leadership, elders, cultural presentations, blessings, and representatives from tribal gaming organizations and regional tribal governments. Tribal leaders highlighted the economic effect the facility will have throughout the region.
The casino and gaming operations support more than 200 jobs in the community, with additional seasonal employment opportunities added each summer. Tribal leadership also noted the significant construction and trade employment generated throughout the development of the project.
“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.”
The name 400 Horses honors Chief Alexander of the Pend d’Oreille people, a tribal leader remembered for his prominence in the region. Tribal officials emphasized the importance of incorporating cultural identity and educational exhibits throughout the facility to share the history and traditions of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes with visitors and guests.
“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.”
