The Lumbee Tribe is assessing whether to pursue a casino and resort on newly acquired land along Interstate 95 in Robeson County, North Carolina, marking a pivotal moment after Congress granted the tribe federal recognition. County documents show that approximately 240 to 241 acres of farmland south of Lumberton were purchased for about $6 million. The site sits near the small communities of McDonald and Raynham, close to the interchange with Interstate 74, with part of the property fronting the interstate.

The development path remains unsettled, as tribal members will ultimately determine whether gaming becomes part of the tribe’s economic strategy. Lumbee Chairman John Lowery, who also serves in the state legislature, has underscored the role of voters in the decision-making process. “What form of economic development we take early on in this new era, whether gaming is part of our future or not, will be determined by the will of the Lumbee people,” he said in a video message.

Casino Proposal and Alternative Development Plan

As reported by Business North Carolina, Lowery stated that a gaming project would not consist solely of slot machines. Instead, he described a more expansive resort plan that could bring “a shopping outlet and additional amenities, such as a golf course, a Top Golf-style facility, a water park or similar attractions.” If the referendum does not approve gaming, the land would be repurposed for a business and industrial park intended to draw corporate investment and major employers.

A statement provided to a local newspaper explained the motivation behind the acquisition. “This strategic acquisition was made to secure land that can be utilized for long-term economic development initiatives that benefit our people for generations to come,” the statement said. The land was purchased through Lumbee Tribal Holdings, identified as the for-profit arm of the tribe.

The potential development has generated interest in eastern North Carolina, where no casino currently operates. At present, tribal gaming in the state is limited to facilities in Cherokee, Murphy, and Kings Mountain, all controlled by federally recognized tribes. For decades, the Lumbee held only state recognition, a status that did not permit gambling operations.

Economic Stakes and Land Trust Protections

Lowery has emphasized that either development route could provide substantial economic benefits for the region. “Existing laws and policies create powerful incentives for corporations to invest in our community,” he said. “Either of these options can lead to thousands of jobs and be an economic boon, not just for our tribal territory, but for this entire region of the state.”

The newly acquired property is expected to be placed into a federal land trust along with other holdings such as the tribe’s headquarters and cultural center in Pembroke. Trust placement prevents the land from being seized through eminent domain and, according to Lowery, provides “critical protections that safeguard our long-term interests.”

The location near Interstate 95 offers logistical advantages despite a relatively sparse local population. People familiar with the land cited its proximity to exit 10, with Lumberton located approximately 12 miles north and Raleigh roughly 105 miles north. Analysts view the route as heavily traveled, giving a resort-style casino potential access to visitors and pass-through traffic.

Lowery pointed to other tribes in North Carolina that have successfully developed gaming enterprises, noting “the economic powerhouse that the Eastern Band (of Cherokee Indians) has become in the western part of the state,” as well as the “transformative growth” experienced by the Catawba in the Metrolina area. He also highlighted broader economic goals, stating the tribe must position itself to serve as an engine for the region and support improvements in prosperity, health, and education.

For now, the Lumbee population — estimated at around 60,000 according to various reports — awaits a referendum that will determine whether the I-95 property becomes a destination casino or a commercial park. Any construction timeline would depend on the vote along with subsequent regulatory and financing considerations.