Eklutna Gaming Hall Unveils Exclusive Soft Launch Experience!

BIRCHWOOD, Alaska (KTUU) – The clamor of construction activities echoed along Birchwood Spur Road on Tuesday as work on a newly established gaming hall progressed, which made its debut on Monday for exclusive guests.

The Native Village of Eklutna inaugurated its provisional venue of the Chin’an Gaming Hall on Monday evening, catering to a limited group of invitees.

“It is official today; the Chin’an Gaming Hall has commenced operations. This signifies a significant achievement in the quest for genuine self-determination for the Native Village of Eklutna,” stated Aaron Leggett, President of the Native Village of Eklutna, in a statement released on Monday. “I assure you that ensuring safety and respecting our neighbors and patrons are our foremost priorities in our operations.”

The completed structure of the gaming hall is anticipated to be finalized by 2026, featuring up to 700 gaming machines. The temporary setup is expected to host around 85 units.

Alaska’s News Source conducted interviews on dozens of doorsteps on Tuesday, requesting community feedback regarding the opening of the gaming hall.

While no one was willing to speak on camera, residents conveyed their ongoing apprehensions.

The primary concern, residents mentioned, revolved around road conditions, particularly with the anticipated rise in traffic that the gaming hall would generate on a narrow road they described as icy and lacking visibility.

“I am genuinely worried for the community,” remarked Birchwood inhabitant Brian Holl. “Especially for the first individual who may get struck and fatally injured on this roadway by an intoxicated casino patron.”

Holl, alongside seven others, has lodged a lawsuit against the Native Village of Eklutna and the Chairwoman of the National Indian Gaming Commission.

The legal action highlights safety and environmental issues and contends that the approval from the National Indian Gaming Commission was not legitimate.

Alaska’s News Source also consulted with nearby businesses, which shared similar concerns, particularly about vandalism and a potential surge in criminal activities.

Mayor Suzanne LaFrance has previously voiced her support for the endeavor. Alaska’s News Source reached out for her comments on these worries but has not yet received a response.

Christopher Constant, from the Anchorage Assembly, has also shown his endorsement for the gaming hall.

“The residents of the Native Village of Eklutna have faced significant disadvantages for an extended period,” stated Constant. “And for practical and ethical reasons, it is their territory, their entitlement, and I believe they have every right to proceed with it.”

Additionally, Alaska’s News Source attempted to contact the Native Village of Eklutna for an interview but received no reply. A facility tour was also declined earlier in the day by the spokesperson for the gaming hall.

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