Native Village of Eklutna Rushes Casino Project Amid Legal and Community Opposition

The Native Village​ оf Eklutna​ іs rapidly advancing the construction​ оf its casino, located about​ a mile west​ оf the North Birchwood exit off the Glenn Highway, Alaska. With heavy machinery and security on-site, the tribe​ іs working​ tо open the facility before President Donald Trump’s inauguration​ оn January 20, 2025.

Marnell Gaming Partnership

The project is backed by Marnell Gaming, a Las Vegas-based casino development firm known for its large-scale projects. Though the financial specifics remain undisclosed, the scale of the operation is suggested by the presence of wrapped slot machines on-site. A clear opening date has not yet been set.

Legal Background and Policy Change

A significant legal shift occurred in early 2024 when the Department of the Interior reversed a long-standing policy that prohibited Indian gaming in Alaska. This change allowed the Native Village of Eklutna to move forward with its casino plans on the 8-acre Ondola Allotment in Birchwood.

Legal Challenges

In December 2024, a group of Birchwood residents filed a lawsuit against the casino, challenging the legitimacy of the tribe’s status and the casino itself. Legal expert Don Mitchell speculated that the tribe is rushing the project to secure operational status before possible intervention by the new administration.

Support and Opposition

Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance expressed support for the casino , citing potential economic benefits, including job creation. However, Assembly member Daniel Volland raised concerns about the public health impact, particularly addiction.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) quickly approved the project’s environmental assessment on January 16, 2025, despite concerns over the rapid approval process and lack of transparency. This has led to frustration among local residents, especially in Birchwood, who are upset by the swift pace of construction and the disruption to their neighborhood.

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