The tribe that owns Sky River Casino has purchased a plot of land directly north of the property. The Wilton Rancheria tribe bought 20 acres of land north of the tribe’s north of the casino site.
The acquired property is located within the Lent Ranch Marketplace Special Planning Area in Elk Grove. It is currently zoned for commercial and retail use. Representatives for the Wilton Rancheria say that they do not have any development plans for the 20 acres. However, that will likely change sooner rather than later.
Online casinos in California aren’t legal yet. Furthermore, Las Vegas-style casinos are only operated by one of the state’s federally recognized Native American tribes. In other words, California tribal gaming has exclusivity over casinos.
Discussions being had about Sky River Casino expansion
Sky River Casino opened in August 2022. The Wilton Rancheria built the entertainment destination in partnership with Boyd Gaming Corp., which also manages the property.
Wilton Rancheria Chairman Jesus Tarango said that acquiring this land just north of the young California casino is a sign of big things to come for the venue’s future.
“Today, as we embark on this historic land purchase, we honor not only our past, but also the future. In acquiring this land, we sow the seeds of prosperity for seven generations to come,” said Tarango. “Our vision is rooted in a legacy of stewardship, ensuring that our descendants inherit a world richer in culture, tradition, and opportunity. This purchase is not just a transaction; it is a pledge to safeguard the heritage of our people and to preserve our ancestors’ lasting legacy as the original caretakers of this land.”
There are no clear plans for the 20 acres as of yet. However, talks of expansion have already been floating around.
“This land acquisition signifies a transformative milestone for Wilton Rancheria, presenting an opportunity that holds the promise of prosperity not only for the tribe, but also for the City of Elk Grove and the greater Sacramento area,” said Chris Franklin, Wilton Rancheria’s executive director of economic development.
Sky River will add a whiskey and cigar lounge called The Humidor, which is expected to open early next year. The lounge will be next to the sports bar and pub, 32 Brews Street. In August, casino leaders also mentioned that construction would soon begin on a new 300-room hotel, spa, pool, parking garage and event space.
Sky River Casino has 100,000 square feet of gaming space on the casino floor. There are over 2,000 slot machines and 80 table games to go along with 17 bars and restaurants. An expansion and more features will no doubt help the casino maintain the success it has seen over its first year in business.
Sky River Casino winning big in California
It is no secret the Sky River Casino was an essential addition to the city of Elk Grove. During the past year, the casino has created more than 1,600 jobs in the community. The casino has also supported local businesses and non-profit organizations and has committed to investing $130 million over the next 20 years in services to the community, including police, fire and schools.
Elk Grove City officials say they are looking forward to working collaboratively with Wilton Rancheria on any plans for Sky River Casino and hope to continue building upon their strong partnership.
The Wilton Rancheria tribe has not disclosed how much the casino had grossed in the past year. However, they say the success of the venue is exceeding their expectations.
