Turning Stone launches last phase of $370M expansion to become New York’s largest convention resort

Turning Stone Resort Casino has launched the latest phase of a $370 million expansion, the largest development since the Oneida Indian Nation-owned facility opened in 1993. Dubbed “The Next 30” or “Evolution,” the project aims to transform Turning Stone into the largest resort convention destination in New York State, with completion expected by 2027.

The expansion includes the construction of a 165,000-square-foot conference center, The Grand Expo, which will double the resort’s event space and incorporate outdoor venues. Additional plans feature The Crescent Hotel, a 258-room luxury accommodation, the Salt Seafood & Raw Bar fine-dining restaurant, and a new 1,500-space parking garage.

This suite of projects is designed to attract large-scale conferences and business events, positioning Upstate New York as a competitor to major metropolitan areas like New York City for tourism and convention revenue.

“As the Turning Stone Evolution continues to transform the resort, it is also transforming our role as an economic engine for Upstate New York,” said Ray Halbritter, Oneida Indian Nation Representative and CEO of Turning Stone Enterprises.

The expansion is projected to create over 3,500 construction jobs and generate a one-time economic impact of $600 million, alongside $22 million in state and local taxes. According to an economic report by Oxford Economics, the Oneida Indian Nation contributed more than $1 billion to the Upstate New York economy in 2023.

Local businesses are set to benefit from the project, with contracts awarded to 26 Upstate New York firms for services ranging from construction and electrical work to plumbing. Companies include Absolute Fire Protection, JPW Structural Contracting, and Flower City Glass Co., with The Hayner Hoyt Corporation and TN WARD overseeing the general contracting work.

“Partnerships with our region’s businesses have always been essential to our growth and success, and we are thrilled to expand these partnerships as the Evolution creates new opportunities today and for generations to come,” Halbritter added.

Earlier phases of the Turning Stone Evolution saw the addition of the NY Rec & Social Club, a nightlife venue in the resort’s Exit 33 wing, and a Sportsplex featuring 36 golf bays and pickleball courts.

Turning Stone’s ongoing expansion is part of the Oneida Indian Nation’s strategy to stimulate long-term economic growth in Upstate New York, providing enhanced amenities to attract a national audience of both business and leisure travelers.