Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River is making significant progress in its ambitious $275 million expansion project. Last week, the company celebrated a major milestone with a Topping Out Ceremony for its new 12-story hotel tower. This event was attended by key figures from Harrah’s Cherokee leadership, dignitaries from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and representatives from the construction firm Robins & Morton.

The Topping Out Ceremony marks a pivotal point in the construction process, symbolizing the completion of the building’s steel structure. It also provided an opportunity to acknowledge the collaborative efforts of everyone involved. Attendees, including project team members, had the unique opportunity to sign the final steel beam, leaving a lasting mark on the new development.

Lumpy Lambert, the General Manager of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River, addressed the gathering, expressing his appreciation for the hard work and dedication of all parties involved. “It’s exciting to see how far we’ve come during this expansion project since breaking ground in 2022,” Lambert stated, according to a company press release. “We are particularly grateful to our stakeholders, partners, and construction teams for their continued efforts and support. They are the backbone of this project and have played a significant role in us reaching this milestone.”

The expansion project is being completed in phases, with the first phase successfully concluded in May. This phase introduced a new 25,000-square-foot casino floor and a 10-table World Series of Poker—Poker Room, enhancing the gaming experience for visitors.

The second phase, currently underway, promises even more exciting additions. Upon completion, the new hotel tower will offer 296 additional rooms, providing more accommodation options for guests. The development will also feature an indoor pool and fitness center catering to guests’ wellness and recreational needs.

New Features Coming Up

One of the highlights of the new expansion is the 12,000 square-foot rooftop restaurant. This venue will boast a 12-seat bar and a wine cellar, offering a unique dining experience with stunning views. Additionally, a 9,600 square-foot spa will be introduced, featuring six treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, and a salon. These amenities aim to enhance the overall guest experience, providing luxurious and comprehensive services.

The construction teams, led by Robins & Morton, have been working diligently to ensure that the project stays on track. The new amenities are scheduled to be completed by late 2024, adding to the resort’s appeal and capacity.

As the project progresses, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River continues to emphasize the importance of collaboration and community. The Topping Out Ceremony was a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, from the leadership to the construction teams. The event highlighted the collective effort required to bring such a large-scale project to fruition.

With the completion of the second phase on the horizon, guests can look forward to an even more enriching experience at Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River. The new hotel tower and additional amenities will significantly enhance the resort’s capacity and appeal, making it a premier destination for visitors.