Mississippi: New Choctaw Resort Development Enterprise $25M property breaks ground in Louisville

The Choctaw Resort Development Enterprise held a groundbreaking ceremony on a new travel plaza in Louisville. The 18,000-square-foot facility, which will be located on South Church Street, will have 150 slot machines, a Sportsbook lounge, 3,000 square feet of retail space, a family-friendly restaurant, and fueling stations for commercial and passenger vehicles. 

As reported by WJTV, Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben spoke during the event and said this project, which has been discussed for some time, represents business growth for the Tribe, and expressed his excitement for the Crystal Ridge community and the Winston County/City of Louisville community. 

“We have a wonderful working relationship and as Tribal Chief for the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians it is a great moment for me that we can work together to collectively better provide for our people,” he added.

In addition to Tribal dignitaries, representatives from the City of Louisville, Governor Tate Reeves’ office, and Congressman Michael Guest’s office were in attendance. 

The Louisville Travel Plaza is a preliminary project name only. Chief Ben announced a Tribal-wide contest to give a permanent name to the new facility. The 24/7 facility will be set on 18 acres of Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians reservation land, the Crystal Ridge Community, located in the city limits of Louisville. 

The $25 million project is expected to employ 100 people and the target opening is the Summer of 2024.

Last month, the tribe's Bok Homa Casino in southeast Mississippi announced its expansion. The property will feature a dine-in restaurant for up to 60 people and see the addition of new space for its sports betting area, which is currently on the casino floor, explained Michelle York, director of resort operations for Bok Homa.

York explained the expansion is expected to enhance casino guests’ experiences and provide better facilities for employees and guests alike, while it will also benefit the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, the tribe behind it.