Michigan: Grand Traverse Band announces new gaming facility in Benzie County 

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) has announced the opening of a new gaming facility on its trust land in Benzie County. The facility is expected to create new employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth for the tribe and the local community.

The Tribe's Benzie County land is one of the parcels of land that was placed into trust and restored to the Tribe soon after the Tribe itself was restored to federal recognition.

Consistent with its policy of maintaining "productive, open relationships with neighboring state and local authorities," the Tribe said that it has engaged with relevant state and local officials to apprise them of their plans.

"The Tribe looks forward to continuing to work with these officials, as well as stakeholders and the local Benzie community to address questions and to ensure that the project aligns with regional interests," it added.

The Grand Traverse Band further announced that it has complied with the requirements of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), including requirements set forth by the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). 

The tribe’s new facility will be located at 7282 Hoadley Rd., Benzonia, MI. Further planning and development are ongoing. The timeline for the new facility has not been announced. The planned location is close to the intersection of US-31 and M-115 highways. 

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians already operates gaming facilities at Turtle Creek Casino in Williamsburg and Leelanau Sands Casino in Peshawbestown.