Sky River, which opened less than two years ago, has announced ambitious plans to expand with a new hotel, amenities and attractions in hopes of attracting more gaming money from the area from the capital to Elk Grove.
At a press conference Friday outside the $400 million, 100,000 square foot facility opening August 2022casino officials and members of the Wilton Rancheria tribe unveiled plans for a 300-room hotel, expanded gaming space, a day spa as well as an outdoor pool and a new restaurant and bar.
The major projects, the cost of which was not disclosed, are expected to be completed by summer 2027.
But first, officials will build a 1,600-space parking garage, as well as a new grand entrance to the casino along Highway 99 that will include a porte cochère, a lavish covered entrance and a glass atrium, complete with improved valet parking. These additions will take place from summer 2025.
“Our guests will continue to benefit from what we are known for: the Sky River Casino experience,” Michael Facenda, the casino’s president and CEO, told the 100 people in attendance at their outdoor ceremony that included prayers. , indigenous songs and dances. “We are poised to become California’s premier casino destination.”
Sky River projects double the attractions and accommodation amid a pitched battle with other casinos vie for dominance in the capital region. Thunder Valley Casino near Rocklin, for example, recently opened The Venue, a 4,500-seat entertainment space, just as Red Hawk Casino outside Shingle Springs unveiled its Apex Family Entertainment Center and the Cache Creek Casino, in western Yolo County, continued to attract visitors with its hotel and golf course.
Plans for Sky River expansion has been rumored for months.
On an investor call in February, Sky River casino operator Boyd Gaming said the Elk Grove destination was among the strongest properties in its portfolio. Officials said they collected $76.9 million in management fees, a fraction of what the gaming tables brought in during their first full year of operation.
Boyd Gaming CEO Keith Smith said they plan to “dramatically expand and enhance” the experience at Sky River to position the casino as a unique regional getaway.
This will include the state-of-the-art hotel, which will feature outdoor swimming pools, a day spa, 20,000 square feet of banquet space for meetings and events, and a full-service restaurant and lobby bar. bringing the number of restaurants, bars and lounges to 19.
“These Sky River expansion plans will continue to set new standards of excellence,” Facenda said. “Once we have a world-class hotel, event space and other highly sought-after amenities, we will provide an attractive destination for guests who will travel in search of elevated experiences.”
The gaming space consisting of 2,100 slots and 80 table games will also expand with an additional 400 slots as well as an additional high-limit games room and VIP area.
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