Still Awaiting Permanent Building, Eklutna Fully Opens Chin’an Gaming Hall
Photo Credit: Duallogic | Envato
A grand opening of Chin’an Gaming Hall by the Native Village of Eklutna (NVE) precedes an even grander affair once the tribe constructs a permanent building for the attraction.
As of Monday, February 3, the temporary location of the gaming hall is fully open to the public. The facility had been operating on a limited basis for two weeks, with invited guests. Eklutna tribal members held a private ceremony on February 2 to celebrate and bless the facility.
Restaurants, More Machines on the Way
“This will be remembered as a historic day for the Eklutna Tribe. The Chin’an Gaming Hall is a symbol of the tribe exercising its sovereignty in a way that will improve the lives of tribal members and benefit Alaska for generations to come,” says NVE President Aaron Leggett. “The safety and respect for our neighbors and customers are our top priorities. We believe the Chin’an Gaming Hall holds tremendous economic development potential—not only for our Tribal members but also for the broader community. We are committed to ensuring all stakeholders benefit from this facility.”
Current Issue
February 2025
NVE hopes to begin construction on a permanent facility soon. Anticipated to open next year, the 50,000-square-foot casino on Birchwood Spur Road would hold two restaurants and 700 video gaming machines, such as bingo and pull tabs, but not any traditional gambling tables. The National Indian Gaming Commission approved NVE’s proposal last July.
“We are humbled by this opportunity to introduce a new gaming experience to Southcentral Alaska,” says Chin’an Gaming Hall General Manager Ryan Walker. “We will strive to be good neighbors to Birchwood and the surrounding communities and will work to share in any success we have.”
An independent economic analysis by the US Bureau of Indian Affairs estimates the Chin’an Gaming Hall will generate more than $67 million of new economic activity per year and will support more than 410 jobs. Revenue will enable NVE to support housing and healthcare initiatives, employment opportunities, job training, scholarships, and cultural enhancement.
“The Native Village of Eklutna wants to thank the Bureau of Indian Affairs staff and management for their extensive work on the environmental assessment,” says Leggett. “This was an incredibly thorough review process, and we appreciate their dedication. I also want to thank the NVE staff and Tribal Council—none of this would be possible without your hard work.”
The Chin’an Gaming Hall (“Chin’an” means “Thank You” in Dena’ina Athabascan) is open 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday. Hours may change as development advances.
Aleut Expands into Energy and Retail Sectors
A newly established subsidiary of Aleut regional corporation is the new home for newly acquired business lines Renewable Energy Systems, Arctic Home Living, and Alaska EcoWater Systems.
Doyon Promotes Tourism President to Lead Sector Growth
The general manager of Kantishna Roadhouse and Northern Laundry Services, both subsidiaries of Doyon, Limited, is promoted to President of Doyon Tourism.
Huna Totem Promotes Director of Sustainability
Erica Drahozal, the Director of Sustainability at the Icy Strait Point cruise ship destination in Hoonah, now serves that role for its parent company, Huna Totem Corporation.
Architecture & Engineering + Interior
February 2025
In our February 2025 issue, we highlight how architecture and engineering improve every facet of our daily lives, from increasing the availability and affordability of housing to building small businesses and improving community safety. Projects like these are helmed by Alaska’s exceptional professionals, including the 2024 Anchorage Engineer of the Year Nominees. In the Interior, Red Dog Mine and the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum are both making big moves. Enjoy!