A multi-million dollar expansion to be completed in three phases is planned for Minnesota’s Grand Portage Lodge and Casino.

Located along the Lake Superior shoreline approximately two and a half hours north of Duluth, the casino’s renovation will include expansion of the event center and casino and parking lot, a new swimming pool and lobby, remodeled guest rooms, lounge and restaurant. According to a news release on Friday, Kraus-Anderson of Duluth is managing the construction of the projects design by DSGW Architects of Duluth.

Rob Hull, Grand Portage Tribal Councilman, said, “It is an exciting time in Grand Portage. This is a project that will once again make Grand Portage a first-class resort and destination, but will also help to ensure prosperity for the future generations of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.”

Completing the project in three phases will allow the casino and lodge to remain operational during construction. Completion of the final phase of the project described as “a fun, open atmosphere,” is expected by the spring of 2017, according to the news release.

Brian Mayotte, the casino enterprise administrator, added, “It’s time. More than 20 years have passed since the original casino was built and we can’t tell you how excited we are to have a newly renovated facility,” and, “The improvements we make to the air quality, and the opportunity to offer bigger and better centrally-located amenities will definitely impress. The renovation will not only make an impact to our curb appeal, but ultimately provide our guests with a top-notch experience.”