Nebraska’s gaming industry is about to welcome another big player. Ho-Chunk, Inc., a prominent economic development corporation owned by the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, has announced plans to construct a $50 million casino and horse racing track in South Sioux City.
This move adds to the already competitive local gaming market, where recent developments have stirred both excitement and anticipation.
A Long-Time Vision Coming to Life
The groundwork for Ho-Chunk’s expansion began four years ago when Nebraska voters approved a constitutional amendment allowing casino gaming at licensed horse racing tracks. The historic vote not only reshaped the state’s gaming outlook but also opened opportunities for developers to tap into Nebraska’s appetite for entertainment.
Ho-Chunk quickly took action, launching a subsidiary called WarHorse Gaming to spearhead new casino projects. Early initiatives in Omaha and Lincoln kicked off with significant momentum. However, as those projects continue to gain traction, Ho-Chunk has now turned its focus to South Sioux City.
The South Sioux City Project
At the heart of the South Sioux City plans is Atokad Park, a location with deep ties to horse racing history in the region. While racing operations are currently running on a smaller scale at Atokad, the new development promises to bring major upgrades. The $50 million investment aims to transform the area into a state-of-the-art destination for horse racing and casino gaming.
The project will include:
- A full-scale casino facility with slot machines, table games, and other gaming amenities.
- A modernised horse racing track that can host larger events.
- Hospitality elements, including dining, entertainment, and other features to attract visitors from the region.
The investment reflects Ho-Chunk’s strategy to tap into underserved markets in Nebraska while reinvigorating local traditions like horse racing.
Competition Heats Up in the Gaming Sector
Nebraska’s decision to allow casino gaming has ignited a flurry of development. WarHorse Gaming has already made headlines with its projects in Omaha and Lincoln, both of which are under construction.
Once completed, these casinos will position Nebraska to compete with neighbouring states that have long offered full-scale gaming experiences.
But South Sioux City’s entry into the mix will bring competition even closer to home. The city’s proximity to Iowa—where casinos have operated for years—makes this new development particularly significant.
For years, Nebraska residents crossed the border to visit Iowa’s gaming establishments. Now, with WarHorse projects gaining momentum, Ho-Chunk aims to keep that gaming revenue within state lines.
Economic Impact and Local Reactions
The South Sioux City project is about more than entertainment. It carries significant economic potential for the region, offering job opportunities, boosting tourism, and generating tax revenue for local and state governments.
Economic analysts predict that the $50 million investment will provide hundreds of construction jobs during the development phase, followed by permanent roles once operations begin. Positions in hospitality, security, gaming operations, and management are expected to attract a diverse workforce.
One South Sioux City official expressed optimism, stating, “This project has the potential to revitalise the local economy, bring visitors to our area, and create lasting benefits for our community.”
Atokad Park, in particular, stands to benefit from renewed attention. Its racing track, which has long been part of South Sioux City’s identity, will see significant upgrades to meet modern standards and attract racing enthusiasts from across the region.
A Timeline for Completion
While Ho-Chunk has not yet released an official timeline, the company’s track record suggests that progress will move quickly. WarHorse Gaming’s existing projects in Omaha and Lincoln remain top priorities, but momentum for South Sioux City is growing.
Currently, horse racing operations continue at Atokad Park in a temporary capacity. Once construction plans are finalised, attention will shift fully to developing the casino and new racing facilities.
Industry insiders say the South Sioux City location has strategic advantages, particularly its accessibility to both Nebraska and Iowa residents.
What’s Next?
With Ho-Chunk’s ambitious $50 million investment, South Sioux City is poised to become a major player in Nebraska’s growing gaming industry. The development joins a wave of casino projects across the state, driven by the 2020 constitutional amendment that opened doors for legalised gaming at racetracks.
As WarHorse Gaming pushes forward, all eyes will be on South Sioux City. For residents, tourists, and investors, the promise of a new casino and upgraded racing track marks a fresh chapter—one that combines tradition with modern entertainment.
