POLSON, Mont. — Construction is officially underway on the new 400 Horses Casino in West Polson, a major development that tribal leaders say will not only boost the region’s economy but also reaffirm cultural pride and long-term prosperity for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT).

The project, led by S&K Gaming, marks a significant milestone for the area surrounding Flathead Lake. The 35,000-square-foot facility will house a modern casino floor, with a range of gaming options and amenities designed to attract both locals and tourists. Once complete, the casino is expected to create 75 permanent jobs in the community.

“We're not only initiating a construction project, but we're laying the foundation for a brighter future, a future rooted in our sovereignty, our resilience, and on our unwavering commitment to our shareholders,” said Bryon Miller, CEO of S&K Gaming, during the groundbreaking ceremony.

A Cultural and Economic Investment

Beyond creating new employment opportunities, the casino is poised to be a strong revenue generator for CSKT. Those funds will help support key tribal services and programs.

Revenue from the casino will directly benefit education, healthcare, housing initiatives, and cultural preservation for the tribal community. David Bean of the Indian Gaming Commission emphasized this broader impact, stating, “As a result of Indian gaming, we're seeing revitalization of our communities.”

Local leaders and residents alike have expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential to stimulate West Polson’s economy while promoting the tribes’ self-sufficiency and future development.

More Than a Casino: Long-Term Vision

S&K Gaming says the 400 Horses Casino is just the beginning of a multi-phase plan to transform the West Polson area into a full-service destination. Plans are already in motion to add an event center and hotel once the casino opens. The goal is to make West Polson a hub for entertainment, tourism, and cultural celebration.

“We anticipate increased patronage in our existing facilities, fostering economic entrepreneurship and creating a more vibrant economic ecosystem,” an S&K Gaming representative noted.

The 400 Horses Casino is projected to open its doors by June 2026.

In the months ahead, S&K Gaming will also partner with local businesses and contractors to ensure that as much of the work and procurement as possible stays within the region, further amplifying the project’s economic ripple effect.

As shovels hit the ground and construction begins in earnest, leaders say this is more than a new entertainment venue—it’s a new chapter for the community.

Originally reported by Taylor Richardson in Montana Right Now.