The Catawba Nation has opened Two Kings, a $1.2 billion casino in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, about 50 kilometers from Charlotte. Chief Brian Harris used the inauguration ceremony to announce the tribe's next move. Two additional casinos will launch at undisclosed locations across North Carolina.
The tribe remains in active negotiations over these expansion projects. Details on timelines, specific locations, and investment figures have not been released. The announcement signals aggressive growth from the Catawba Nation's gaming operation.
Two Kings marks a major entry into North Carolina gaming for the tribe. The facility's scale and investment reflect serious casino infrastructure play. This opening establishes the Catawba Nation as a player in regional gaming rather than a one-property operator.
The expansion to three properties positions the tribe to capture market share across multiple North Carolina regions. By keeping locations undisclosed, the Catawba Nation avoids premature local opposition while negotiations proceed. This strategy buys time for the tribe to secure agreements with state and local authorities.
North Carolina has historically restricted casino gaming. The Catawba Nation's ability to develop multiple properties suggests significant legal and political progress. Tribal sovereignty provides the foundation for these projects to move forward outside traditional state gaming frameworks.
The $1.2 billion investment in Kings Mountain demonstrates financial capacity and commitment. A three-property footprint would make the Catawba Nation a regional gaming powerhouse, competing with established operators across the state.
The timing of the announcement matters. Federal policy and state attitudes toward tribal gaming continue evolving. Chief Harris's public declaration signals confidence in securing approvals. The tribe appears ready to scale operations quickly once negotiations conclude.
Poker rooms typically anchor casino properties this size. Two Kings likely features significant poker operations. If the planned casinos match or exceed the flagship property's footprint, they would add substantial poker inventory to the North Carolina market