The Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort, currently under construction in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, is well on its way to becoming a landmark destination. Situated off Interstate 85, just 35 miles west of Charlotte and near the South Carolina border, the project is projected to cost between $700 million and $1 billion. With ongoing work, the resort’s first phase is scheduled to open in spring 2026, followed by the complete resort opening in 2027. The development, led by the Catawba Nation Gaming Authority, promises to significantly impact the local economy and provide numerous job opportunities.

Construction milestones and project timeline:

The initial stages of the resort’s construction have already reached impressive milestones. The foundations for both the casino complex and hotel have been completed, with the casino structure reaching its full height. Meanwhile, steel framing continues to rise for the hotel tower, which will eventually stand 24 stories high with 385 rooms. The hotel’s framework is now 10 stories tall, with one additional floor being added nearly every week, and the building will be connected to the casino complex upon completion.

Once operational, the resort will feature 2 million square feet of space, including a vast array of gaming options. The introductory casino, slated to open in 2026, will offer 1,350 slot machines, 20 table games, and a 40-seat restaurant. There will also be a sports betting area, complete with kiosks, and a Lucky North Rewards desk. The resort will replace the current temporary casino, which has been operational since 2021 and has grown increasingly popular as its fourth anniversary approaches in July 2025.

The full resort will open in 2027 and will feature expanded gaming, including 4,300 slot machines and 100 table games. It will offer 11 dining outlets, ranging from a steakhouse to an Italian restaurant, a marketplace with six different venues, and quick-service dining options like a café and a grab-and-go outlet. Additionally, the resort will have 11 bars, including a central bar and a sports bar, catering to visitors with various tastes and preferences.

This expansive project is poised to create a substantial number of jobs both during construction and after completion. Hundreds of workers are currently involved in the construction phase, and once the resort is operational, it will provide around 2,200 permanent jobs. Notably, the Catawba Nation is committed to ensuring that local citizens and members of the tribe have access to these opportunities. As a result, the project is expected to have a transformative economic effect on Cleveland County and Kings Mountain, as well as offer lasting benefits to the Catawba Nation itself.

Catawba Nation Chief Brian Harris emphasized the significance of the resort, calling it “an economic game changer for Catawba citizens” and a major force for driving local economic growth. He also noted that the tribe’s commitment to self-sufficiency and building a prosperous future for generations to come is reflected in the construction of the casino. The temporary casino has already contributed to several community and charitable organizations, a trend that will continue as the resort expands its operations.

Strategic partnerships and project management:

The development is a collaborative effort involving several key partners. The Catawba Nation Gaming Authority oversees the project, while Yates-Metcon is serving as the general contractor for construction. Delaware North, a global gaming and hospitality company, has been brought on board to manage operations, gaming, and hospitality once the resort opens. According to the company’s press release, the architectural firm SOSHNY Design is also involved in crafting the resort’s design.

Harris expressed gratitude to the Cleveland County officials, the City of Kings Mountain, and both state and federal leaders for their continued support throughout the development process. He particularly acknowledged the partnership with Delaware North, which replaced a previous financial backer after the National Indian Gaming Commission raised concerns over that partner’s involvement due to a past history with illegal gaming activities.

To support the resort’s development, the Catawba Nation has funded two significant infrastructure projects. These include the expansion of the Dixon School Road Bridge over I-85 near the casino entrance, which has been doubled in size, and the installation of new sewer lines that will serve the resort and surrounding areas.

The project has not only bolstered construction efforts but has also reinforced the Catawba Nation’s dedication to improving the region’s infrastructure. These improvements are critical as they ensure that the resort is fully equipped to handle both the immediate demands of construction and the long-term needs of a major entertainment venue.