Lumbee Tribe Advances Plans for I-95 Casino Development
Lumbee Tribe Approves Constitutional Changes to Enable Gaming
The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has moved forward with its plans to develop a casino by approving amendments to its constitution that would permit gaming activities on tribal lands. This significant step was approved by the tribe’s governing council with a 17-2 vote in April. The amendment sets the stage for a larger vote involving all tribal members, whose consent is essential for the project to proceed.
Establishing a Legal Foundation for Future Casino Ventures
The proposed constitutional changes are an important part of the tribe’s broader economic development strategy. While these revisions do not authorize casino operations directly, they lay the necessary legal and administrative groundwork to regulate and manage gaming ventures on tribal territory. If ratified, the tribe would be able to govern commercial gaming projects, create partnerships, and manage revenues effectively.
Tribal leaders emphasize that this initiative aims to improve economic opportunities for tribal members. Chairman John Lowery highlighted that expanding into the gaming sector could offer significant financial gains that complement anticipated federal support. The Lumbee Tribe is expected to receive full federal recognition by late 2025, a milestone that not only ends decades of limited status but also opens eligibility for federal programs and the possibility to operate gaming under federal regulations.
In preparation for development, the tribe’s business entity recently purchased approximately 240 acres of land along Interstate 95 in Robeson County for $6.8 million. This site, located near a major transportation route, is considered ideal for a large-scale entertainment complex that could attract visitors from the surrounding region, including neighboring South Carolina.
Potential Economic Impact and Challenges Ahead
The proposed casino is projected to create about 3,000 jobs, which would significantly benefit the local economy in one of North Carolina’s economically challenged areas. Beyond direct employment, the project is expected to spur growth in nearby businesses and infrastructure development.
If realized, the Lumbee casino would be the fourth tribal gaming facility in the state, joining others operated by Native American tribes. However, the plan faces opposition from other tribal groups concerned about market saturation. These tribes have previously expressed opposition to the Lumbee’s federal recognition during hearings.
Several challenges remain before the casino can become a reality. The constitutional amendment requires approval from the full tribal membership. Following that, the land must be placed into federal trust, the tribe must negotiate a gaming compact with the state, and obtain all necessary regulatory endorsements. This process may take several years.
Nevertheless, the Lumbee Tribe’s recent constitutional approval and land acquisition demonstrate a strong commitment to making the casino project a success and a key part of their economic future.
