Churchill Downs’ application for a casino owner’s license in Vigo County has been approved by the Indiana Gaming Commission.

The operator confirmed the issuance of the license in a press release on Friday.

Indiana Casino: Queen of Terre Haute Casino Resort

The latest development essentially greenlights the group’s plan to build the Queen of Terre Haute Casino Resort after outbidding a trio of competing offers.

The IGT unanimously voted to award CDITH the sole certificate of suitability following a competitive proposal process that included three further bidders.

The firm outbid Hard Rock, Full House Resorts, Premier Gaming Group, and Terre Haute Entertainment to deliver “a true destination resort geared to attract guests and economic activity from across the midwest.”

CDI will invest $240 million in the project, which will include 1,000 slot machines, 50 table games, a 125-room luxury hotel, TwinSpires Sportsbook, and multiple food and beverage outlets.

The business claims that the development’s concepts and design elements will represent the tradition of Vigo County and the surrounding region.

“In the days ahead, we look forward to continuing our partnership with Vigo County officials and the Indiana Gaming Commission as we work to bring our vision for the Queen of Terre Haute to life,” said Jason Sauer, CDI’s senior vice president of corporate development.

Impact on Indiana Gaming Industry

The IGC will formally grant CDITH the casino owner’s license to operate an inland casino in Vigo County upon final confirmation of the prior license holder’s imminent nonrenewal.

Furthermore, the certificate of suitability and future issuance of the license is subject to all applicable commission regulations, resolutions, and orders.

“We are overjoyed for this opportunity and humbled by the Indiana Gaming Commission’s confidence in CDI and our plan to build a great destination casino resort in West Central Indiana,” stated Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI.

According to a study conducted by economists at Purdue University, the Queen of Terre Haute will have an annual economic impact of $190 million in the community, including 1,000 construction jobs and 500 permanent jobs. The project is predicted to result in a 2% annual boost in the gross regional product of west-central Indiana