WarHorse Lincoln has announced the start of Phase 3 construction at its casino property, with work scheduled to begin February 9. The project represents the final major stage of a long-term expansion plan at Nebraska’s second largest casino and will continue through the end of summer 2027. While the work will bring noticeable changes to parking and access, casino operations will continue without interruption.
The upcoming construction phase centers on expanding the property’s amenities and gaming capacity. Throughout the project timeline, WarHorse Lincoln plans to maintain guest access and provide transportation alternatives as the southeast portion of the site becomes an active construction zone.
Parking and Access Adjustments Begin February 9
As Phase 3 begins, WarHorse Lincoln will close its large southeast parking lot, which will serve as the primary construction area. The closure will take effect Monday, February 9, and will remain in place for the duration of the expansion.
To accommodate guests, the casino will designate alternative parking areas and operate a complimentary shuttle service that transports visitors directly to the casino entrance. WarHorse Lincoln stated that the shuttle service will run continuously to support guest flow during peak and non-peak hours.
Although the southeast parking and access area will close, guests will still reach the property using 1st Street and West Denton Road. During construction, the casino will direct visitors to entrances located on the west side of the building. Signage will guide drivers and pedestrians, and team members will be stationed on-site to assist with questions and directions.
The casino emphasized that these access changes aim to preserve a convenient arrival experience despite the construction footprint occupying a major portion of the property.
Casino Operations to Continue Throughout Construction
Ho-Chunk, Inc., the parent company of WarHorse Lincoln, confirmed that gaming and hospitality operations will remain fully operational during the entire Phase 3 buildout. The casino does not plan any closures related to construction activity.
Guests can continue to visit the gaming floor, restaurants, and entertainment spaces while construction progresses nearby. Management acknowledged that patrons may notice changes to traffic patterns, parking locations, and entry points as the project advances, particularly as work continues into 2027.
According to the casino, on-site staff will remain available to help guests navigate the temporary layout. The goal, the company stated, is to maintain a welcoming environment while construction crews complete the final stage of the property’s expansion.
New Dining Venues and Expanded Gaming Planned
Phase 3 construction focuses on adding new amenities that expand both dining and gaming options at WarHorse Lincoln. Plans include the introduction of Nebraska Ale Haus, a sports bar concept that highlights local flavor and game-day experiences. The expansion also includes Big Fire Chop House, a new steakhouse designed to provide a premium dining option on the property.
In addition to the new restaurants, the project will significantly increase the size of the gaming floor. Once completed, the casino expects to offer more than 1,100 slot machines and 18 table games, increasing overall capacity and variety for guests.
Lance Morgan, President and CEO of Ho-Chunk, Inc., described the construction as a key moment for the property’s development.
“These improvements represent a major leap forward for WarHorse Lincoln,” Morgan said. “While guests may notice changes during construction, the end result will be a dramatically enhanced destination—one that offers more dining variety, more entertainment, and an even better experience.”
Construction is scheduled to continue through summer 2027, marking the longest and most extensive phase of development at the casino to date.
