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CATOOSA, OK - Cherokee Nation Enterprises (CNE) will construct a state-of-the-art expanded gaming facility and a 150-room hotel in Catoosa as a part of a new expansion plan approved Monday by CNE's Board of Directors. CNE is a wholly-owned corporation of the Cherokee Nation.

The expansion, which will create several hundred additional jobs, combined with CNE’s recent purchase of the adjacent Indian Hills Golf Course, fits with CNE's plan to develop the area as a destination site.

"This will be the first destination gaming facility in Oklahoma", said Jerry Floyd, CNE's vice-president of gaming. "The finished facility will be an entertaining place to come and stay for a relaxing weekend or a night on the town."

CNE also plans to develop restaurants and additional family-oriented amenities and attractions on the site at I-44 and 193rd E. Avenue.

"This is a continuation of economic development for the Cherokee Nation and northeastern Oklahoma", said David Tippeconnic, an advisor to CNE’s board. "The expansion will allow CNE funds to further diversify and for the Cherokee Nation to become more self-sufficient, as well as continuing to fund important tribal initiatives like health care and education."

Floyd says that construction on the expansion will begin immediately, but with maximum consideration for current customers.

"We will minimize the inconvenience to our patrons during the expansion", Floyd said.

CNE employs more than 800 people in northeastern Oklahoma and operates gaming facilities in Roland, West Siloam Springs and Catoosa as well as convenience stores, smoke shops and a gift shop.

CNE begins its expansion at the Cherokee Casino in Catoosa at the same time an expansion of the Cherokee Casino in Roland is in its final stages. The Roland expansion will be completed by the end of May.