After years of speculation and due process, a Native American owned casino in Fruitport Township may soon be granted the long awaited approval to begin construction.
A public hearing is coming up this Wednesday in Fruitport Township to discuss the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians' proposal at a former race track in Muskegon County.
The tribe purchased Great Lake Downs in 2008. The tribe hopes to invest $180 million to create 69,000 square feet of gaming floor space, 1,700 slot machines, 35 table games and a 220-room hotel. The site is 30 miles west of the populous Grand Rapids area.
Fruitport Township officials and Muskegon County commissioners have expressed support for the project. Written comments will be accepted through Jan. 7. The tribe predicts the casino could create 1,200 jobs when it opens in 2020.