Arkansas Racing Commission Awards Pope County Casino License to Cherokee Nation

The Arkansas Racing Commission has awarded the Pope County casino license to Oklahoma-based Cherokee Nation Entertainment (CNE). The unanimous decision came after Thursday’s meeting where commissioners interviewed representatives from Cherokee and reviewed their application.

Arkansas Racing Commission awards fourth and final license in the Natural State to Cherokee Nation

Under Arkansas gambling laws, only four casinos are allowed to be constructed in the state. This is the fourth and final license the commission has awarded.

CNE’s development plans consist of over $300 million investment in Pope County, including a 50,000 square-foot casino with 1,200 slot machines; 32 table games; a poker room and sportsbook; a 200-room hotel with a resort pool and luxury spa; and multiple dining options.

In addition to multipurpose space to accommodate meetings, conferences, concerts, and special events, the project also includes outdoor music venue and a water park along with an RV and dog park.

The development is situated on the northeast side of Russellville and 60 miles northwest of Little Rock. It’s located just north of Interstate 40 between the Weir Road west exit and Bradley Cove east exit.

Project is scheduled to be completed in the next 18 months

During the meeting, CNE CEO Chuck Garrett insinuated that the company will work to obtain remaining permits and begin working on the project as soon as possible. The company released the following statement:

“It is an honor to have been issued the Pope County casino gaming license by the Arkansas Racing Commission. Holding the state’s fourth and final license is a responsibility we take very seriously. We are excited for Legends Resort & Casino Arkansas to become a reality.

“For more than five years, we have been laying the groundwork for this economic development project and embracing local community input. With the license in hand, we are prepared to finalize the remaining permitting and administrative processes so we can commence construction.”

The company said they will keep the Commission briefed on progress.

The project is expected to be completed in the next 18 months.

Additionally, approval is the step in the right direction for CNE.

However, resistance from a group backed by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma could complicate the process. The group is attempting to place a measure on the November ballot to remove the Pope County license.

This measure requires more than 90,000 signatures by July 5.