The Four Winds Casino in South Bend along with its three affiliated sites in Michigan could resume operations by June 15.
A June 1 statement from The Pokagon Gaming Authority said it has been working with the Pokagon Gaming Commission and the Pokagon Health Task Force to develop a reopening plan. Reopening the sites is contingent on approval from the Pokagon Gaming Commission and notification to the National Indian Gaming Commission.
The Pokagon Gaming Commission hearing is June 8. Indiana's casinos have been closed since mid-March because of the pandemic.
“We’ve been closely monitoring the data related to the spread of COVID-19, consulting with medical experts, and evaluating the potential impact the virus could have on our community and employees,” said Matthew Wesaw, tribal council chairman and CEO of Pokagon Gaming Authority. “Although we are a sovereign nation, we’ve also considered recommendations from the federal government, Centers for Disease Control, and governors from both Michigan and Indiana, before setting June 15 as our target date for reopening.”
Indiana’s multi-phased Back on Track Plan permits reopening of the state’s casinos June 14, provided casino operators submit procedures to resume operations to the state, which must be approved by health officials. The casino reopening plans must include procedures to health screen employees, encouraging social distancing and cleaning protocols.
Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, which is operated by Caesars Entertainment, reportedly plans to reopen June 14.
Wesaw said the June 15 reopening date for all Four Winds locations could change if there is a resurgence in new COVID-19 cases. Four Winds has reached out to its employees in anticipation of the reopening moving forward.
